When I think of research...

My view of research has changed quite a bit during this course.  While I always knew that there were a lot of things to consider when doing research, I am now aware of how intricate of a process completing research is.  It is not as simple as coming up with a question and trying to find the answer.  The question has to be written clearly and in a way that allows the research to lead to an answer that can be understood clearly.  I also learned that there are different processes and methods that can be used to complete the research.  Many things like researchers bias, ethics, data collection and analysis, and issues with participants all need to be considered when completing the research.  Any mistake in any of these areas or in the research design could lead to invalid data, in turn, wasting the time and effort of the researcher.  As an early childhood educator, my view on research has been enhanced when considering the effects the research can have on children.  Not only can research provide children and professionals with information that can improve the development of children, but we also need to consider the impact that allowing children to participate in the research project could have on the child.  Children are often an essential piece of the research design when completing research to help children.  We need to make sure that their best interest is always in mind when completing the research.

A big thanks to all my colleagues for sharing their views and insights throughout this course.  I wish you the best with your upcoming classes.