When I Think of Research...

What insights have you gained about research from taking this course?
One insight I have gained from taking this course is the true importance of research in regards to childhood development and find new innovative ways to help guide children to a productive life of learning and growing. As childhood educators our goal is to help children improve their live and the more research done can help provide effect ways of teaching that otherwise may not be thought of as options.

In what ways have your ideas about the nature of doing research changed?
I still find research a slightly confusing topic. It could be because I find it difficult to think outside the box. Although it would be nice to think of something others have not thought of before I am ok with learning from others and growing though my studies for now. Someday I hope to have the ability to take part in an important research study especially if it will allow me to help children.

What lessons about planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood did you learn?
During this research course I have learned the different parts required to successfully perform a research study. There are so many different types that I was not aware even existed. Each piece is vital and I am taking away pieces of knowledge that before did even cross my mind.

What were some of the challenges you encountered—and in what ways did you meet them?
One of the largest challenges I was faced with was trying to understand the different terms that were present during the course. If I had a hard time understanding i had a few classmates that I could ask questions and they were able to explain the terms in a way that was easier for me to understand and comprehend. My classmates have truly helped me through this course and I cam extremely grateful for their help, knowledge and willing to help clarify things for me.

Research Around the World

 

One current international research topic that caught my eye on Early Childhood Australia was "sending unaccompanied children who are seeking asylum in Australia to detention in Malaysia is a breach of not only their human rights, but also their special rights as children and as refugees, according to the peak advocacy body for young children, Early Childhood Australia (ECA)".  These children must be absolutely terrified and to be sent a detention facility alone is unimaginable.  The trauma they are already experiencing and then to send them into yet another scary situation is not in the child's best interest.  Adults need to take in consideration the feeling of abandonment the children are already feeling.  the government should be trying to protect these children and watching out for their needs physically and emotionally I believe should be at the forefront.  Caring for these children should include supporting them when it comes to education so the children have a chance to become successful member's of society and someday can provide for their own families.  providing health care and support services will benefit these children greatly and it is up to the government to help ensure their safety and a feeling of security.


http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/early_childhood_news/june_2011_childrens_commissioner_needed_to_protect_children_in_detention_centres.html