When dealing with research the insights have I gained from taking this course is; it takes time. Then, you have to validate where the information comes from and research the credentials and credibility of who wrote the articles. Research gives information that is the result of conclusions obtained from observing and evaluating children in relevant ways from professionals in the field of early childhood. Research can also reveal how different cultures understand child development and challenge us to rethink ways of studying, understanding, and explaining children (Naughton, Rolfe, & Siraj-Blatchford, 2010)
One of the ideas about the nature of doing research has changed with learning how research is given to children. Learning that professionals (such as pediatricians), even with given consent, the parent has the right to change their minds. Research should never be given if it will bring harm to any contributor’s well being. (Naughton, et al, 2010). Confidentiality is required when dealing with children and families.
The lessons about planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood; I learned how planning and designing dealing with children helps to learn, their wants, needs, and their points of view; although conducting research is important, the researcher needs to follow ethical practices during the research and especially when minors are involved in any research. Even if conducting research conclusions do not provide expected results, the information will always be valuable when learning new things about children.
The challenges that might be encountered will be in using a questionnaire for parents, and the fact that some questionnaires may not be returned. Children will be allowed to give their permission and parents and teachers will give their consents (Naughton, 2010). Participants will be informed about the research in a language that they can understand, and the researcher will have an understanding of the culture of the participants (Naughton, 2010). Research should challenge old ways of planning and designing research to show reasons to modify or change our efforts to promote learning (Naughton, et al., 2010).
Some of the ways my perceptions as an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course is how to be a skilled researcher; you need to be effective, objective interviewer, to know that the process of children research is no longer just input/output, but more of a learning process where children and grownups work, act together and create research to empower children (Naughton, et al, 2010).
I would like to thank Dr. Myers and all of my colleagues for the support and valuable information I received about research. I know my colleagues will make a big splash in early childhood. Good luck to you all.
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: McGrawHill.
