Research Competency

Throughout the course in Building Research Competencies I have gained new insights into the world of research through the field of early childhood. One of the new insights includes the understanding of quasi-experimental research designs. Before this class the only quasi- anything I knew was a hunch back from Notre Dame. Now I can distinguish differences between research designs and make appropriate choices on how to proceed with a research study using the guidelines of various research designs.

Planning a research study in the early childhood field involves great considerations to informed consent of participants and confidentiality as well as conducting the sampling process. Continuing the research process entails deciding on what research design best fits the aim of the topic. I hadn’t thought about a quantitative design being used too much within the early childhood field. Now I know how it can be used on its own as well as in conjunction with qualitative design. Overall, conducting research in the early childhood field requires great thought to what is being examined along with how the participants will be affected by taking part in the study.

While I can’t think of any true challenges that I encountered during the course, there have been many new opportunities for growth of knowledge. Coming out of this course, I feel that I have a better understanding of how research contributes to the early childhood field. Even within my very own program, I now understand and can appreciate the amount of time and investment that is being made through the research being done. I also understand my role in the research process as well.  Coming into this course I did not think I would gain as much as I did. I greatly appreciate all of the insight and support given from everyone that has been a part of this learning process.