Reflecting back on this course I am pleasantly surprised at
the growth I have made since the beginning.
I have learned about the details of the research process as well as how
to conduct research in a fair and professional manner. I have learned about different types of
research and what context in which they are best applied.
My initial ideas about research were that it would be over
my head, boring and not interesting. As
I have studied however I have found it to be understandable,
interesting, and a valuable tool in advancing the early childhood landscape.
At the end of the unit I learned that before I even start
the planning process I have to keep in mind equity, time, and nature of the
study. I learned that careful planning
is a must for a viable research project and that I must carefully design the
study to answer a specific question that will ultimately benefit the early
childhood field.
One of the challenges that I faced is that the research
process is more detailed then I imagined and in the process of identifying
essential questions I found that I had to modify the study. Time was a big factor in this course and I
had to make some sacrifices to complete the task assigned.
I have already had an opportunity in a staff meeting with colleagues
to argue for implementation of research in our work. Our education system is in need of revamping
and I feel it is vital to me and my team not only to look at past research but
also conduct our own research before changes are made. I appreciate the tools I have gained from
this course and I know I will be using them in the future.
