When I Think of Research...

When I started this course, I already knew that I did not possess much knowledge on how to properly research and after reviewing the course content, I realized that I would face many challenges with this course. I was thrill to learn how much thought has to go into creating just the right research question in my assignment; every aspect had to be  planned out before establishing a research project.  I learned how to research material the correct way and it made me more effective and efficient and this skill will be very helpful in the future, because there is quite a bit of research involved in the early childhood education field.

While planning my research, there are many facts and issues to address. First, you should consider which research design best fit your topic.  Because, ethics is very important and must be well thought-out, along with validity; also how statistics will be composed and if there will be any fairness in the procedure.

I found the differences between quantitative and qualitative research to be very challenging. Dr. Kien provided web links to assist in our discussions questions and this really helped me understand the different topics. Fortunately, with the help of my colleagues, I successfully completed this course. I now look upon researchers, in the early childhood field, with respect; because they go the extra step in improving the classroom and helping the children become more successful.

A warm and heartfelt thank you to my colleagues in Group 1, because reading your discussion posts and your helpful responses helped me to better understand the topics, therefore ensuring I was on the correct path. Again, thank you, Dr. Kien for your patience, encouragement, and sharing your knowledge with us while conducting this course.  

Research around the World

 

Early Childhood Australia

http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au  

I have chosen to research the Early Childhood Australia website.  I did notice some of the topics in this particular site are similar to topics in the US websites.

Their mission statement is to advocate making sure quality, social justice and equity in all the issues relating to education and care of children from the age of birth to eight years old and securing the best options and outcomes as they grow.

Some of their values are:

• The rights of children
•   Leadership, excellence and respect
•  Courage, honesty and openness
•  Collaboration and diversity
•  Justice
• Social inclusion of children

Early Childhood Australia is a peak national, non-profit and non-government organization that acts in the interest of young children.  It assures quality knowledge and information to those who are need of it and also work with government, early childhood professionals, parents, and various organizations.

If you decide to have a membership of Early Childhood Australia it will enable you to:

1. be a voice for young children
2. receive discounted access to our quality assured publications and conferences
3. be kept abreast of early childhood news and happenings
4. network with others in the field through your local branch
5. identify issues and influence policies concerning the care and education of young children

This year they will be celebrating Early Childhood Australia (ECA) celebrates 75 years of continued service to Australian children. Started in 1938 as the ‘The Australian Association of Pre-School Child Development’ and the longevity of the organization is testament to its leaders and members.

What surprise me is how Australians creates a vision for high quality inclusive practices in early childhood education and care. It will assist everyone in ECEC services, as well as support professionals, to fully include children with a disability and to achieve high quality outcomes for all children. It will also provide a framework for the development and implementation of policy and programs designed for all young children.