As we are approaching the close of this class, I found myself pondering the question of what I think about research. There are so many thoughts, and now they are not just thoughts of terror when that "research" word comes up; rather, the thoughts are of how can we be better researchers that can be a contribution to the field of early childhood.
I have gained many insights from this course. I have learned the value of research and what I must do to ensure my research is valid and ethical. It is difficult to be a researcher, but with the information I have gained I know I can at least attpempt to begin the process of research. I understand there are steps we must take when conducting research, and we must ensure we are purposeful planners when conducting a research study.
I believe each week offered a new challenge for me, especially when it invovled putting my research question down, and trying to actually narrow it down where it was not so broad of a topic. Each week I was given new terminology and vocabulary, which became quite challenging when working on the research charts and simulations. However, I realize we all must stay abreast on current research and ensure we are applying new, tested methods to enhance instruction as well as allowing educators, administrators and staff to become more aware of the ever changing field of early childhood education.
I believe one of the main ideas on research that really opened my eyes was the deficit model. I would never conduct any type of research that would make anyone feel as if their race, skin color, or income made them feel inadequate. I will ensure all of children in my class get the education they deserve, while being treated equal and fair.
I would like to thank each and everyone of you for all of the wonderful comments and suggestions you offered each week. This has been a very informative course, and without each of you, I would have not made it through. I wish each of you the very best of luck!!
Blessings,
Susan
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Friday, June 1, 2012
Research Around The World
I chose to look at Early Childhood Australia. http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/. I found some great information on this website! There is a series of Research called, "RIPS" that is, Research In Practice Series. It is a group of experts and practioners who provides practical, easy-to-read resources for those involved in the early childhood field. "The books are designed to assist with those challenging issues which arise in the care and education of young children, by offering effective, new approaches." (http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/) Below is a list of the ongoing research.
I was amazed at the information from each research topic. The only downfall would be each book costs around $15.
I also found a section that is titled, "Supporting Best Practices." Under that tab there are several subtabs, dealing with Emotional foundations for learning, learning and play, feelings and behaviours, learning about babies and toddlers, learning about children ages 3 to 9 years, learning and teaching, as well as children's rights. What I found very beneficial was under the subtabs, there was a wealth of information dealing with each. I did not want to post all of that information here, but I encourage you to browse this website as it is so informative!
I am a supporter of play and I was quite excited to read about play in Australia, as it does not differ much from the United States. Here is what was on the website about play:
"About play
Child's play - it's not just for fun
Some people say play is children's work. There is a large amount of development and learning taking place from birth to five years of age and play is a foundation for this learning. United States
What do children learn from play?
Adults support children's learning by protecting the time needed for exploration and discovery, and by interacting with children in ways that enhance their learning and development though play. Canada
An overview of children's play
Children play to learn. As they play children explore, discover, adapt and learn. United States
How do young children learn
Children have an inbuilt desire to explore and learn. Play is the tool for doing this. Simple games like "peek a boo" are playful at the same time as they engage children's minds in the learning process." (http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/everyday_learning_and_play/about_play_and_learning/about_play.html)
Some people say play is children's work. There is a large amount of development and learning taking place from birth to five years of age and play is a foundation for this learning. United States
What do children learn from play?
Adults support children's learning by protecting the time needed for exploration and discovery, and by interacting with children in ways that enhance their learning and development though play. Canada
An overview of children's play
Children play to learn. As they play children explore, discover, adapt and learn. United States
How do young children learn
Children have an inbuilt desire to explore and learn. Play is the tool for doing this. Simple games like "peek a boo" are playful at the same time as they engage children's minds in the learning process." (http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/everyday_learning_and_play/about_play_and_learning/about_play.html)
Under the tab, "Learning and Teaching" http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/learning_and_teaching/, there is a wealth of resources for educators. I will make sure I have placed this website in my favorites as I can use this site as a valuable resource.
Below is a link to a video from this website. It is Pam Cahir, the CEO of Early Childhood Australia, discussing how so many Australian children, under the age of 5 are in child care. Pam Cahir is discussing how children can be made smarter. It is quite an interesting video.
References:
Early Childhood Australia. (2000) Retrieved from May 31, 2012 from http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/.
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