This course has been amazing! I remember how nerve-racking it was for me at the beginning. Not just, because I have never conducted a research study, but because I thought, I had to complete one project at the end. So knowing that this was a course to help me understand research per se and how to design my own study with the help of a knowledgeable and insightful instructor was, needless to say, a big relief. In addition, I promised myself to always read that syllabus and spare myself from all those troubles.
I envisaged research to be overwhelming and time-consuming. However, through this experience, I learned how to evaluate research studies. Likewise, I learned the skills to conduct a research project from design to finish and ensure validity by using triangulation. Therefore, the prospect of taking on research study is no longer daunting but exciting. I was particularly drawn to qualitative research as it gives a different approach from the traditionally Eurocentric and male-dominated perspective of research. I have also learned that an important aspect of research is to consider the ethical issues that might arise during the process. It is essential that researchers ensure that children are not harmed physically or emotionally by the projects, the designing process, or its publication.
I have learned that research participants need to be treated with respect, and research has to be fair and equitable. Participants are not subjects to be used at the researchers will. Instead, research can bring the participants voices, ideals, and hopes to life by acknowledging their contributions from the beginning to the end.
This course enlightened me to the need to conduct research that benefits children and the field. As it turns out, many relational dynamics still need to be researched. I have gained the significance of research in quality programming, the importance of conducting research that benefits the field and how to ensure that researcher who come into our programs respect and follow ethical guidelines.
This process was definitely challenging but a truly grand learning experience. I would like to thank all my colleagues for their insightful comments. Finally yet importantly, I want to thank Dr. Davis for her guidance, insightful suggestions when I needed them the most. It was privilege learning with all of you.
I agree, this has been a great course. I also feel that I have learned a great deal of valuable information.
ReplyDeleteI've enjoyed reading your blog throughout this course.
It's been great taking the course with you!
I have also enjoyed this course. It has been so helpful to listen to different ideas from another perspective than my own. I have even thought about some of our classmates and their projects when I am out in my field for my job. Certain things will jog my memory about something I have read either on these blogs or the discussion board. I have really gained alot from my classmates. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYou seem to have almost the exact same feelings about this class that I did! At first, it was very nerve racking, but the way that course was organized made it easier to complete the assignments. I feel like a more effective educator now that I understand the research process, different types of research studies and how to implement and develop a research project. Good luck on the remainder of your graduate program. I am sure you will do great!
ReplyDeleteIt was nerve racking for me at first as well! But the way it was broken down helped out quite a bit. I also learned much from this course. Good luck with your future courses!
ReplyDeleteShannon
I believe we all released a great sigh of relief once we got through the first week of this course and it appeared much more manageable. Dr. Davis guidance and thoughtful comments to each of us were helpful to all. Thank you for all your contributions to our class. Good luck!
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