Thursday, August 22, 2013

When I Think of Research

What insights have you gained about research from taking this course?
I have learned the different between “goo research” and “bad research.” Good research does not rely on one specific method but uses different approaches to do research. Bad research is when you limited your sources and depend on one specific resource. Therefore, you do not have numerous resources to gather useful information for the research process.
In what ways have your ideas about the nature of doing research changed?
Regardless of various approaches to the research process, I am able to select a topic and search and review the literature. Therefore, I have learned how to develop questions that can be addressed in the research process. Nevertheless, it is important remember to collect information needed in order to formulate the research design. After the information is collected, it is essential compile the data to process the finding in order to have a research report.
What lessons about planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood did you learn?
I have learned to plan ahead in order to conduct research in early childhood. Therefore, I can design a plan that fit the type of research that will be composed. I will conduct the research in a way that respects the confidentiality and privacy of the participants in the study.
What were some of the challenges you encountered—and in what ways did you meet them?
I encountered various challenges. I had to learn how to select appropriate topic to research. Also, I had to learn how to gather the important information needed to do a research study. Therefore, I had to read many books and surf the internet to learn how to do a research study of my own.
What are some of the ways your perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course?
An early childhood professional have various issues and trends that can be addressed through the research process. The professionals can develop various surveys and questionnaires before they begin to work on any research study. Therefore, the different methods will provide them with valuable information for their research study.

Personally, I would like to thank all of my classmates for their valuable thoughts, inputs, and creative ideas implement in the classroom discussions.

Saturday, August 3, 2013

Research Around the World

What are some of the current international research topics?
International research topics are looking more into various supporting best practices for young children in the classroom setting. First, some of the best practices are engaging their curiosity and imagination, exploring and discovering various concepts and skills, and learning how to use their problem solving and mastery skills. Next, international research is exploring how to secure learning environment where the children feel safe to transition. Therefore, as early childhood teachers, it is vital to demonstrate support in the classroom for the children to feel secure and safe in the learning process.

What surprising facts/insights/new ideas about early childhood did you gain from exploring this international early childhood website?
The new insight that was surprising to me what learning the challenges of balancing praise and correction for early school years children who exhibit opposition and defiant behavior. One of the strategies early childhood teachers used was the school wide positive behavior support system. The teachers communicated clear expectations for behavior they wanted demonstrated in the classroom setting. The teachers also acknowledging good behavior when it was displayed; therefore, it is vital to correct unacceptable behavior. Nevertheless, I learned that it is beneficial for teachers to establish behavior management strategies in the classroom that will create a balanced atmosphere.

What other noteworthy information did you find on this website?
The international mission for early childhood education is similar to the mission statement of programs here in the United States. Early Childhood in Australia focuses on advocating, ensuring a quality education, social justice and equity in all issues and trends in regards young children care and their families.

Reference

Early Childhood Australia. http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/