When I think of research................

Looking back at the past eight weeks, I am amazed at just how much I have learned about the early childhood research process. Although I have been a consumer of research, I had not given much thought to the process involved in implementing a research study. Having learned about the research planning process and the time and effort that goes into implementing a study, I have a newfound appreciation for the work of researchers whose hard work contributes to the early childhood knowledge base and helps support and influence our work as early childhood professionals. One of the major insights I gained was the amount time and effort required at the planning and designing stage of a study prior to implementation. I learned the importance of ensuring that a study is conducted in an ethical manner, ensuring that its’ valid and ensuring that the findings of the study will be beneficial to the field of early childhood. In addition, to learning about the research process, I learned how to become a better consumer of research. The course readings were extremely helpful in defining terms that are useful in reading and understanding a research paper as well as which parts of a final research to focus on in-depth and which areas can be skipped. 

      Prior to this course, I had not been aware of the many considerations researchers have to make at the planning stage that if overlooked will have an impact on the results of the study; selecting a study topic that is specific and focused on answering a specific question, selecting a research method that is suitable for the study depending on its purpose, selecting appropriate methods of data collection and analysis, selecting study participants and taking measures to ensure that the study is ethical, valid and equitable. I also learned that researchers need to self-examine their own personal views and biases and ensure that they don’t impact the results of the study as well as remain open to whatever the study may present them with.  

One of the main challenges I faced during this course was learning the new terminology and understanding how to apply the concepts I learned to the research process. I often found myself having read the course content several times and needing to do additional research to increase my understanding. I found the weekly charts incredibly helpful as it allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the various concepts and terms we learned about each week. Through the simulation process, I was able to understand how to apply the concepts I learned to an actual research study. 

Having learned about the research process, I have a new found appreciation for the work of early childhood researchers. Each time I read a research paper I will have a better understanding of the time and effort that was invested in the study so that we as early childhood educators can have access to more knowledge and insights about the feel of early childhood. I recognize early childhood researchers as essential contributors to the field.

The past eight weeks of learning was enriched thanks to the knowledge and insights shared by my colleagues. Thank you all for being such a supportive community and wish you all the best as you continue your educational journey!