When I Think of Research

     During the most recent course taken at Walden University, insights that I have learned are as follows: steps taken during the research process when choosing a subject of interest, "selecting a topic, design the research, draw conclusions..." (MacNaughton, et al., 2010, p. 14), broadened vocabulary, and learning about early childhood research organizations around the world that provide a resource for families and educators of young children such as, Early Childhood Australia.
     My ideas about the nature of research have changed in a way that I no longer believe that by just reading a few articles alone and writing about a subject will result in a true research attempt. There is a process to researching that I had no idea needed to take place. Research requires planning and focus that will lead to an answer that may help with current or future developments/concerns in the field of early childhood.
     Lessons that I have learned bout planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood have been to know what interests I desire to learn answers regarding questions in the field of early childhood, ensuring to document the process from the beginning to the end of the research project, and to be objective during all interactions with participants.
     Challenges I entered were selecting and carefully wording my topic of interest and developing my own interpretation when answering questions for the "Growing Knowledge Chart". I met these challenges by using the instructors feedback each week notated on discussions and assignments that resulted in great improvement!
     My perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course by the fact that caring for young children requires more then working in a classroom setting, but developing a mindset to continue and have a passion to learn about young children and their development, behaviors, and nature that changes with each generation. Early childhood professionals are continuous students in session, teachers for their peers, and resources for families and policy makers in the field.  
     Lastly, to my fellow early childhood professional colleagues, thank you for your continued support during our journey together! I am always delighted to see familiar names when I enroll in a new course. You keep me motivated and on course with the feedback and comments you provide during discussion and on my blog! Thank you!

References

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

MacNaughton, G., Rolfe, S. A., & Siraj-Blatchford, I. (2010). Doing early childhood research:

     International perspectives on theory and practice (2nd ed.). New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill