When I think of Research....

Blog Assignment: When I Think of Research...

From this course I have gain the knowledge and confidence to conduct a research the correct way from the beginning to end.   When I first began this course I looked at the word “research” and was very afraid and nervous that I would have to conduct this long drawn out  process without any assistance, just on my own, but once I started reading the resources, participating in group discussions, gaining positive/critical feedback from the professor, Dr. Bird-Lisset, and fellow classmates along with independent practices I think I am now ready to tackle my very own study. I have learned many insightful lessons such as when planning make sure that you research and find all resources related to your topic before you began, and during designing the study, be certain to us all of the sections listen in the text (2010, p.13-32) as a guideline so you will not miss anything.  When conducting the research you need to keep a positive attitude, even when the unexpected occurs.  Keeping a quick and open mind to modify things that are not planned to meet the needs of the interviewee, is another thing I found to be of importance while designing the research.  Some to issues I encountered were that parents/guardians show their interested in the research but did not return consent forms, participants did not complete all of their research session, and dealing with participants that had language barriers.  I also tried to provide reminders by hanging posters around the facility reminding parents to complete consent forms; and set up a table during arrival and departure times, everyday for one week to inform those parents who were interested.   I tried to reschedule all session during times that would be great for parents, children, and educators that would best meet their needs, but again all did not complete all sessions.  I tried to find a translator in the community that would help participants feel more comfortable and in which they could relate to for non-English speaking participants.  Early childhood educators/advocators/professionals play a major role in the lives of younger children.  Without them there would not be modifications to bettering the curriculums, and well-being of younger children to best meet their individual needs.  I would like to thank God, my two children, my family, my professor, Dr. Bird-Lisset, and my fellow colleagues for providing me with the words of encouragement, new knowledge, thoughts, ideas as well as positive/ critical feedback that allowed me to become a more confident person throughout this course.  I wish you all the best throughout your future endeavors.  Good Luck to you all! Have faith and trust in yourself to be and do the best for our little ones who are our future!

References:

Mac Naughton, G., Rolfe, S.A, & Siraj-Blatchford, I. (2010).Doing early childhood research:

            International perspectives on theory and practices. 2^nd ed. New York, NY