Reflections
on a Research Simulation
I
was very nervous thinking about taking a research class. It had been a long time since I had done a
formal research project. I know that I
have a great deal of respect for people that do research now. Learning how to read research papers to look
for supporting data for your own research helps to save time (Lepuschitz, J.K.
2011, p.3). Going forward, I will pay
special attention to research that has been done when reading articles or
reviewing curriculum and resources for our Head Start program.
There are many factors
that must be considered when writing a research paper. Even before beginning a research project,
research has to be completed to determine if there is support for your research
topic. Being a methodical person, it was
reassuring to know that there is a process to be fulfilled before the research
project can come to conclusion.
There
are several steps to consider when doing a research project. First, a topic has to be chosen. It should be something that stirs passion in
the researcher. Next other people’s
research must be read to find support for the research paper. Then a specific research question can be
developed. Choosing a design for the
research is important as well. Will it
be quantitative, qualitative, quasi-research, or a mixed methods
methodology? Data will be collected
based on the design choice. The data collected is then analyzed, conclusions
are drawn and results are shared (MacNaughton, G., Rolfe, S.A.,
Siraj-Blatchford, I., 2010, p. 14).
Ethical issues have to be examined.
Using equity in research also helps to validate the project. Because of the brain research done in the
1990s, we know that children can play an active role in research. Their ideas should be valued.
Choosing a research
question was one of the most challenging aspects of the simulation. It took a while to narrow down the
topic. Finding other research about my
topic was difficult as well. Changing
the words I used in my search seemed to be helpful. Deciding on a research design also took some
time. Just when I thought I had it
figured out, another factor would need to be considered. I had to step back and look at the overall project
to finally decide that a mixed methods approach would be the best.
Going forward, I will
be more critical about the articles I read in early childhood. I will more carefully examine the methodology
of the overall research project. Seeking
out work from other countries will help me to gain a global perspective and
perhaps, acquire ideas about possible solutions to issues in the United States. Throughout my journey through the Master’s
program, I am constantly reminded of the importance of staying current in the
early childhood field.
I want to extend my
gratitude to my fellow classmates. You
offered encouragement and support. Some
asked great questions of me. In your
different roles in early childhood you bring different perspectives to the
concept of research. I have enjoyed
reading your personal comments and continue to wish you well as you pursue your
Master’s Degree at Walden University.
References
Lepuschitz, J.K. (2011). A Practical Guide to Reading Research Articles. Laureate Education,
Inc.
Baltimore, MD
MacNaughton,
G., Rolfe, S.A., Siraj-Blatchford, I. (2010). Doing Early Childhood Research:
International
Perspectives on Theory & Practice (2nd ed.) New York, NY:
McGraw-Hill.
