When I Think of Research..

What insights have you gained about research from taking this course?

The insights I have gained from taking this course has been learning how to begin to research a topic I am interested in by beginning with a question and choosing a research design. 

    In what ways have your ideas about the nature of doing research changed?

I still find the process challenging at best but I have learned some of the elements of qualitative and quantitative and mixed methods.  I learned a qualitative design involves collecting data by observation, pictures and video; quantitative involves the gathering of numerical data in the form of numbers, graphs and charts; mixed methods is the use of both qualitative and quantitative in the same research to ensure validity in a research design.

    What lessons about planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood did you learn?

The lessons I have learned about planning, designing and conducting research in early childhood is your topic should be one that you are passionate about or one that you seek to find the answer to; planning is the key to good research. 

    What were some of the challenges you encountered—and in what ways did you meet them?

Some of the challenges I have encountered were narrowing down a topic after choosing a main topic and three subtopics.  I found each time I researched the topic the information would direct me into another direction.  I finally chose the topic that I wanted to be part of and find the outcome. 

The other challenge I encountered was distinguishing between qualitative and quantitative research methods I had the data collection for qualitative instead for quantitative.  I realize that qualitative data collection includes pictures, observations and interpretation of events.  Quantitative data collection includes questionnaires, numerical and along with other tools. 

I adjusted to the challenges by having a phone conversation with Dr. Parrish which I found very helpful; she gave me great insight into research.  She shared that sometimes research can be literal at first until you find your footing or where your passion lies.

    What are some of the ways your perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course?

Some of the ways my perceptions of the early childhood profession have been modified because of this course I have discovered that research is wide open to professionals and educators in the field.  Our experiences direct us to ask questions and seek to find the answers to unanswered questions through research.  Even if a study has been done before it can be repeated but possibly with a different outcome; the findings could make a substantial mark in the field of child care and development.