When I think of Research.....

Week 8 Blog Assignment: When I Think of Research...

 

            

     From this course, I have gained the insight that “Researchers must understand and address ethical issues that arise in research, including the need to protect the interests and ongoing welfare of research participants” (Naughton, Rolfe, & Blatchford, 2010, p. 4).  From the outside looking in, I would not have thought past getting participants in a study.  I now know that protecting the rights and confidentiality of the participants of a study is important. 

     My ideas about research have changed because I really thought research was beyond me.  When I pictured a scientist researching a topic, I expected to observe an older individual who worked in laboratory wearing a white coat who only had knowledge of his experiment.  This course has definitely changed my mind about researchers.  It has taught me that I can research topics with the proper training.  From this course, I will bring “non-judgmental questions and responses.”  It is important that a researcher or interviewer do not show emotions when related to particular responses by participants in a study.  I have been told that I wear my emotions on my face.  I have a lot of “Wow” moments. I have learned that to be effective I should practice direct observation rather than indirectly. 

     Some of the challenges I encountered during this semester was always that I wish I had more time to research topics and to work on my assignments.  This course proved to me to be fast paced because I did not know anything about research, therefore, whatever I was expected to do, I really had to research before I began my assignments.    Even with that aspect, I enjoyed the challenge.    

 To my colleagues, this semester has been a grand one! I appreciate your comments in my blogs and discussions.  At times, I thought I was going to give up but I didn’t because, in the back of my mind I could feel your support.  This semester has been a trying one for me.  I had to take a medical leave of absence from my job due to personal issues.  At that point, I really wanted to throw in the towel but I can honestly say, sitting at this computer and working on my Walden assignments gave me the relief and therapy that I needed to continue.  As we embark upon this festive season, please take note to enjoy the simple things in life that you have a reason to be thankful for.  The rising of the sun, the laughter of your children, peace of mind, and hope that tomorrow will be a brighter day.  Peace on Earth and Good will toward men!

Reference

Mac Naughton, G., Rolfe, S.A., & Siraj-Blatchford, I. (2010). Doing early childhood research: International perspectives on theory and practice (2nd ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.