Saturday, April 27, 2013

When I Think of Research...


Learning about research throughout this course has been both challenging and exciting at the same time. I have initially embarked upon this course with no previous knowledge of the nature of research, and that was quite intimidating to me. I am grateful for the opportunity I have been granted to broaden my knowledge in this area as I believe it will come in handy in many of my future readings.

Prior to this course, I had a substantial difficulty in reading research papers, which made it an extremely time-consuming task. I come out after 8 weeks with a valuable knowledge of how to read formal research articles and recognize the pattern and sections of research. I have learned how to focus my reading, in terms of what I need to give more attention to and what I can skim through. I feel much more capable of benefiting from research I read than before. I especially appreciate that I can now identify specific terms and concepts pertaining to research, including methods employed in the whole process.

Ethics and equity in research are significant elements that I have not considered before. Upon reflecting on their significance and risks involved in disregarding them, I feel that the level of my awareness has increased to a great extent as I have learned the great significance of taking them into account. Power relations and homogeneity concerns in relation to equity in research were things that have opened my eyes to the importance of being alert to the individuals participating in studies.

In addition to being inspired by my professor and classmates as they brought to my attention many important topics and details related to early childhood, I have also been able to overcome some major challenges that I have encountered through building up my research simulation. One important challenge was narrowing down the focus of my study; the feedback I have received and the discussion posts I have read have greatly contributed in making the entire journey not only  successful but also enjoyable.

I would like to take this opportunity to extend my thanks and great appreciation to all my classmates for their valuable input, as I hope we meet again in another learning experience.
Dr. Dartt, I will never forget the valuable support and encouragement you have given me throughout my difficult time. I pray that you will always be an inspiration to your students and all those around you. Thank you.

3 comments:

  1. Reem,
    Thanks for sharing your honesty about research. I have to admit I felt the same way you did. The word "research" was intimidating

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  2. Reem,
    I am so glad your experience this course has been a positive one and you have successfully worked through your initial intimidation. That's fantastic! I was also intimidated at first, but I think the way the course was broken down really helped us learn the concepts and make research something more approachable. Thank you for all your significant contributions to the discussion posts and your personal viewpoints shared on your blog. I've really enjoyed being in another class with you! Good luck in your future courses!
    Lydia

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  3. Hi Reem,

    I found your post is very interesting and informative. Your are so right, learning research during this course was a challenge for everyone, but this notion has completely changed during these weeks, I remember in the first week how animated I was. I felt that I would encounter man y challenges that would impede me during this course. In fact, this course has improved my knowledge about conducting a research. It helps me to gain the knowledge, and the experience that are essential in understanding the fundamental steps of good research. Good luck with your future endeavors.

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