When I Think of Research....

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

The insights that I have gained is that I thought I knew a little about research but in fact, I really didn't know that it takes a lot of  work,  preparation, and time to do a research paper. It is so many different factors to consider before starting research.

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

I had an idea in my head that research in early childhood involved child development theories or teaching strategies. I hadn’t given much consideration to the smaller projects such as routine, and  parent involvement  to start a great research paper.

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

That planning and designing is the most importmant thing to the whole process because in these stategies you’re research topic is in constant evolution. I changed or altered my topic with every assignment because as I learned more the more I realized my errors.

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

I was challenged in the beginning with my topic. I was so passionate about my topic that I couldn’t narrow it down. Mr. Davis feedback and the course text helped me see that while a topic can have you’re interest it has to be workable for the time limit and resources available. I then took my original topic and thought about ways to still meet that need but on a smaller scale.

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

I had never explored this aspect of the early childhood field and as with any change I felt some discomfort along the way. I have an increase in pride in my chosen profession because I can honestly say that I am a little better equiped as a early childhood professional to not only understand research that I read but also can conduct a research paper with the help that I have gained through this course.

I would like to thank my colleagues for their  support and sharing their thoughts, dreams, and comments on the discussion board.  I also want to thank our instructor for the feedback while doing our stimulation assignment. See you in the next course.