Sunday, October 28, 2012

Building Research Competencies

Over the course of the last 8 weeks, I have built my skills in research.  My past research consisted of a lot of quantitative data that needed to be deciphered.  In this course I learned about qualitative, and quantitative design models.  In addition, I learned about triangulation, ethical challenges, and equity as it pertains to research standards. 

I now realize the time, and effort it takes to perform a thorough research study.  I believe that a research study that is done correctly may take months, or even years to perfect.  Eight weeks of learning has definitely increased my knowledge and skill set, however, there is so much more to learn.

I learned that there is much to think about when conducting a research project.  One can not just throw data together and have it make sense.  Additionally, I learned that one must be willing to accept guidance when writing about research.  I believe that my perceptions as an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course because I now know appropriate protocol.  This protocol consists of background research, cross-study research and peer studies.

I would also like to take this opportunity to say "Thank you", to those of you that have been following this blog.  The topic of premature infants holds near to my heart and I hope that you have enjoyed learning about research as much as I have.  

 

Sunday, October 7, 2012

International Research

I have decided to investigate the Early Childhood Australia website for this week's assignment.  This website has a lot of great information for early childhood educators and parents.  Some of the research topics that are discussed on the website include: childhood illness, childhood obesity, school readiness, school transitions, as well as a multitude of other topics. 

What I really enjoyed reading about on the website in regards to these research topics listed above is that they have developed "resource themes" that have been developed to assist individuals working with young children.  These themes give pertinent information on young children and their development.

Lastly, the code of ethics that the Early Childhood Australia organization holds includes these very important values: "respect, democracy, honesty, integrity, justice, courage, inclusivity, social and cultural responsiveness and education" (ECA, 2011).

Reference:

Early Childhood Australia. (2011).  Retrieved from http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/