When I Think of Research...

When I started this course, Building Research in Early Childhood, research seemed like “mission impossible.” The thought of research seemed so big and intimidating that I could not see myself as a researcher. At the end of the course I am proud to say I can see myself as a researchers and I have an understanding of how to conduct research.

 A major challenge in my journey to building research was narrowing my subtopic. School readiness is such a broad topic and I specifically wanted to explore its connection with children and families living in poverty. I investigated several websites exploring similar topics to spark my ideas and gain insights from many researchers. I also reached out to Professor Davis and she was great support at helping me bring clarity to my ideas.

I have gained many insights about research from taking this course and producing my research simulation.  The importance of involving children in research to gain deeper insights in child development and learning promotes many strides in the early childhood field. Recognizing participants’ ethical rights is as important as the focus and purpose of a research project.   Planning is essential in the conducting research; the plan includes exactly how the research is designed. In order to conduct a successful research a researcher must plan the different phases of the research process.

Early childhood professionals wear many hats in the early childhood field and I am excited to continue to grow and learn in my new role as a researcher. I look forward to using what I have learned in this course in the upcoming school year. I desire to become more efficient in my roles as an early childhood professional and researcher.

Thank you to my colleagues for all of your support and hard work in this course. I have learned so much from your posts and feedback. Good luck in all of your endeavors!