Research is always changing, because of those ideas about
the nature of doing research also changed. Research can be conducted in the
past or present, so with that in mind researchers have to think about how the
data is collected. Some forms of data collection can be observation,
interviews, various sources, books. For example, if the data source is
interviewing then the researcher needs to make sure that they interview the
children appropriately.
When planning, designing, and conducting research there are certain
things that have to be kept in mind. First the researcher has to decide what
approach they are going to follow. For example are they utilizing the
qualitative and quantitative design? Also, having an understanding about the different
variables plays a big part when it comes to conducting research. I used to
always mix up variables before entering this class.
Challenges were encounter throughout this class. As I stated
before, I am not an expert as it pertains to research. I had to keep a
dictionary near at all times, meaning I had to look up many of the terms to
have a clear understanding. Luckily, the charts that we had to do weekly helped
me with terms that were giving me the most trouble. Another challenge was eliminating
any bias views that could arise, but through the reading I found different ways
that it could be eliminated, like having more than one researcher reviewing the
data.
An early childhood professional doesn’t just take care of
children, but they bring new views and ideas to the field. Research plays a
very important role when it comes to informing parents, children, and teachers
to new information. I am very glad that I had the chance to take this class, because it doesn't matter what position that you have in the early childhood field, research will help you in.
