When I Think of Research.....

The insights I have gained about research from taking this course are endless. The last eight weeks have taught me to analyze research in a more detailed nature. I have gained a better understanding of the specific research process and the steps to plan a research design; from choosing what method will be used to ensuring validity of the study. The lessons I have learned about planning, designing and conducting research in early childhood is planning is an important part of the research process; choosing a question to be validated and asking "what" and "how" is the specific focus. Research in early childhood can be challenging especially when young children are involved. Consent and confidentiality are very important. This has been my first in-depth class strictly related to research. The challenges I have encountered were understanding all the different research approaches; reading through the textbook, answering the discussion questions and reading the additional resource materials have helped me overcome some of the challenges. My perception has changed through the study of this course by realizing research can benefit any early childhood professional. It is important that each of us gain a better understanding of the importance of research.  

I want to say "thank you" to everyone during the last eight weeks. Your positive comments and support have been encouraging. The journey has not been an easy one, but I have learned so much.

 

I chose the http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/ website for my Blog assignment this week. This website has an abundance of resources available for early childhood educators to include teachers and administrators. The current international research topics I viewed are through the Every Child magazine.  They were "Guidelines for using IPADS with young children" and "Screen-time for children - the implications for health". Both of the articles discussed how electronics during a child's early years need to be limited.  The website had tons of  informational links to additional resources that provided information on topics from babies to grade school. The website used social media such as Facebook, Twitter and  Pinterest to provide information to educators and parents.  

Research that Benefits Children and Families...Uplifting Stories

If I could choose any topic to research and there be a major positive contribution to the well-being of children and/or their families, my topic would be "how to solve childhood poverty". This is a topic that is very close to my heart. If I was not restricted to the realities of today, I would research to develop a plan for children not to endure the pain that poverty causes. I want to imagine the positive contribution would be to end world hunger.

Personal Research Journey - Childhood Poverty

I have chosen childhood poverty as the topic for my simulation. I chose the topic because I am interested  in learning how poverty affects learning outcomes during the early years and how the global economic crisis is effecting children.  As a foster parent, I have seen the effects poverty has on children, the long-term effects can continue into adulthood.  I would welcome any feedback, advice or insight:)

The research chart familiarized me with information that will continue to assist me with my simulation paper.