First of all, I would like to thank my colleagues for an enlightening eight weeks. I have enjoyed reading your blogs and discussion posts. From them, I have learned to ponder the novel elicited from profound questions, be uplifted by words of encouragement, and gain modern insight from fresh philosophies. Good luck to you all!
This course has taken me above my familiar world as a teacher to a next step of putting my values, beliefs, and philosophies to the test. It feels great to be on the path to formulating my viewpoints into something that can be proven or disproven.
My ideas about doing research have become a little more grounded. At this point, research does not seem so far distance nor unreachable.
The lessons learned are many. Where do I begin? I have learned that there are many decisions to make and that those decisions need to be well thought out and requisite to what we would like to see in the end result of our research. I have become clearer on terms that I have heard but never really understood within their context. I have learned that what I had envisioned for my project in the beginning is not what I now perceive, and I know that those ideas and designs may change as many times as need be to have a meaningful research path. I have learned to be even more flexible than I have ever been.
Beginning challenges were aligned with understanding quantitative, qualitative, mixed method, triangulation, and other important terms and the direction they claim for research. I loved the application part 1 papers, as they supported my understanding and helped me make changes to my simulation study so I could continue on a correct path.
My perceptions about being an early childhood professional have not really changed. I still believe that true professionals are committed to causes that they see as beneficial for children and families. However, I do realize that it takes even more dedication than I ever anticipated; grandiose studying from books, from scholarly articles, and continued listening and pondering from other early childhood professionals.
4 comments:
Now that we are all more aware of the complexities of research, we need to make sure that we encourage all of our colleagues, whether administrators or on-the-floor teachers to expand their knowledge and become better advocates for children.
Still, it's easier said than done, as I am sure we have all experienced running into the statement, "that's how we've always done it here." Nothing's better at putting an end to critical thinking.
So let's all become more critical in our thought processes!
Gregory,
Well said.
Sally
Outstanding post, I wish you well in your educational and your career journey. It was great getting to know you and maybe we will share some more classes togehter. Good Luck
Sally,
I appreciate having you in class and I agree this course for me was out of my comfort zone, however, my classmates and instructor made me feel comfortable learning about the various aspects of conducting a successful research. I will take away from this class a vast knowledge and resource that was provided. We as Early Childhood Professionals are truly unique bunch who are committed to the cause. I wish you the Best as you continue on this wonderful journey.
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