Monday, October 27, 2014

When I Think of Research.......

As I conclude my studies of research, I have learned a lot from this learning experience. I have gained many insights about research from taking, “Building Research Competency”. I have learned that research is systematic. Research serves to confirm facts, develop theories, establish facts, reaffirm results, solve problems, and support theories. In early childhood education, the aim for most research investigations is to gain knowledge in order to make decisions.

My ideas about the nature of doing research have changed. Because I know the systems of research and how to employ it, I now know that I am capable of conducting a research investigation.

Every research investigation includes planning, designing, and conducting research. These steps are true for all research approaches and designs. However, what I will always remember and apply is that there are regulations regarding having children as participants in a research study. There are special protections for children and those regulations must be adhered to by the researcher as well as stakeholders such as early childhood professionals and parents.

I did encounter challenges throughout this course. I will suggest to my fellow classmates and to any professional pursuing post graduate studies, to plan well, stay organized, stay healthy, and stay in constant contact with all those who have a stake in your learning and success processes. I learned those tips for success from Dr. Parrish.  Thank you Dr. Parrish.

My perceptions of an early childhood professional definitely have been modified as a result of this course. Knowing and applying early childhood best practices, content, and regulations are essential; however, this course taught me how to be a professional beyond the classroom and center. I have to be competent, honest, positive, reliable, respectful, and supportive.

As I complete this last blog entry, thank you fellow classmates for your support throughout this course. Your responses to my Initial Discussion entries, truly helped me as I navigated through this course


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