When I Think of Research

Over the past eight weeks, my perspective on research has broadened. I have learned the meaning of various new terms. the importance of refining of research questions, equity challenges in research, and how research impacts the ECE field. 

My ideas concerning research have changed because I now understand the research does not have to a complex drawn out topics that consist of alot of data. Research in the ECE field can be on a topic such as the importance of play. I also realized that validity is important in ECE research. This can be done through the use of various methods, such as direct observation and interview, or using multiple researchers to interpret data.

I have learned that it is important to follow the research design process. It allows one to determine what will be research, how the research will be conducted, how the topic related to time, place, and people, how the data will be collected and analyzed, determine if there would be a possible set back and test the design by conducting a test pilot.

The only problems I have encountered were time management and specifying a research topic. It wasn't until week 7 that I fully understand how a research topic should be correctly stated. I will be sure to apply all changes to this week’s application.

My perception of ECE professionals has not been altered by this course.


I wish everyone the best in all future courses and professional endeavors. 

Research Around the World

I chose to browse the Early Childhood Australia, which can be accessed at http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/.  The following topics have been researched:

-Aggression and young children
-Engaging families (Communication)
-Using digital photographs in ECE settings
-Emotional literacy (feelings/emotions in young children)

I was honestly surprised to find out that the topic of bullying is being research in Australia. I viewed bullying as a major problem in the U.S. because of our culture and the emphasized placed on fitting into the "norm".

I discovered that Australia is in process of changing the child-staff ratio of children under 24 months to 1:4. The changes will take place in 2014. I believe that lowering the child staff ratio will be beneficial to young children. As a former infant room Lead Teacher, I found it some what difficult to give 5 infants or toddlers the individual time that they need.