When I think of Research...

The insights that I have gained from taking this research course are that research has multiple parts in developing a study. Research is planned with the thought of many faucets that takes you down different path and stages.  Research has many different concepts that are essential to good research. I learned about designs of research studies. To conduct research you need to make sure your topic is not to board and that it can be develop into hypothesis that is an explanation of something observed or a prediction of something we expect.  

Research to me is complex, and complicated, because of all of the reading and new words that are somewhat confusing. When I started this course I felt uneasy about research because of the reading and understanding that is required for a good research study as I moved forward in this course my opinion of research slighted changed. I still feel somewhat uncomfortable with my understanding of the research process, however thank to Dr. Davis and her passion to teach and guide me in understanding I now have a clearer concept in developing a simulation outline.

As far as research in Early Childhood can be unfair if not conducted with all concepts noticed such as planning , and designing the study with the intend to be fair and just to all participants. One of my challenges was forming my hypotheses, either it was to board or not well develop, however Dr, Davis gave me guidance that helped me to understand. 

In conclusion I am glad this course is coming to an end however I did learned a lot regarding research that I did not know at the start of this course.

Research Around the World

I chose to explore the web site European Early Childhood Education Research Association (EECERA) this site had a lot of interesting topics pertaining to research. One of the challenges that are occurring in research study is the participatory of early childhood children. The current research topic that is international is children methodological and ethical challenges this study is built on the conviction that children, just like adults, are citizens who hold their own views and perspectives, they have competencies and the right to be heard, and they are able to speak for themselves if the appropriate methods are used. Children have the right to be listening to and engage in research so we can understand their world as they see it.

 One of the insights that I found from visiting these sites is that research in all countries are a valuable process to learning new approaches in early childhood education. Children should be listen to and their perspectives are important. When conducting research it is importance to use the right method to capture the right data.

I feel that these child development websites are good resources in preparing educator with new research as well as keeping current on new international topics.

References

European Early Childhood Education Research Association (EECERA): This international early childhood organization publishes a well respected journal. All back issues are accessible from this site and are fully searchable without charge.http://www.eecera.org/journal

 

 

 

 

Research that Benefits Children and Families

A study in Canada reported on the impact of breakfast in children. This research is important to all children and their family regardless of the child’s age.  Teachers are noticing that children are more than ever coming to school without breakfast and they are seeing the effect in the classroom.  A study shows that 77% of children still attend school without any food in the morning before school.  Parents believe that their children are fine when they leave for school without eating, teachers reported that the effect of not eating breakfast usually kick-in an hour into the school day. Teachers believe that poor grades can be related to children not eating breakfast.

When children spend time with their family eating breakfast it supports their physical, mental, and emotional health. When a child does not eat breakfast it can impact the child’s ability to concentrate which affects their grades, behavior and ability to socialize. Teachers also reported that when breakfast is a part of the child’s morning routine then the results are that a student retain learning better, they  willingly interacts with other students, and breakfast also improves the child’s  capacity to learn.

I feel that a good healthy breakfast is the way to go. I see many children coming to school each morning hungry, needing something to eat. Some children will ask and some will not however they will show signs of needing food by crying or either acting out during morning instruction time. 

http://www.kxxv.com/story/19594735/new-research-unveils-impact-of-breakfast-in-the-classroom

Personal Research Journey

The topic I choose was sustaining children social and emotional health in ages two thru five. I chose this topic because I work with children that come from backgrounds that are at risk. Most of the children have or will experience trauma or some other emotional experience that can leave them with scars for life. I believe if schools and teachers would support families by educating parents on the importance of sustaining a good emotional balance: then there would be a decrease in a child's long term effect. I believe that the social and emotional wellbeing of a child has a great impact on how a child functions in adult life. Another and more personal reason why I chose this topic is that my oldest child experience problems adapting in school and relating to other children. He could not manage his emotions he would cry most of the morning when I dropped him off for school. His teacher reported that he would stay by himself most of the day and when other children came near he would not talk or look at them. After months of counseling and family support, my son changed. I want all children to have the opportunity to grow up with confidence and the ability to deal with their emotions so they can be a contributing member of our community.

I appreciate the knowledge I have learned so far and also look forward to more insight about research. I would most kindly accept any suggestions, information, or insight from your perspective on my topic. I am new at this so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Cultual Diversity

This week we are asked if we communicate differently with certain groups, colleagues, family members and friends. I know within my communication I do communicates with differ people and family differently. In reviewing my communication with different groups of people this week, I realized that when I communicated with Spanish speakers I used more non verbal gestures. I believe this is because I am an English speaker. I understand some Spanish; however, I feel most comfortable communicating with English speakers. I want parents to feel comfortable communicating with me so I use a lot of non verbal cues to communicate. The use of non verbal gestures helped my parents to understand what I was trying to explain. I have even experienced parents repeating my gesture in their language for me to repeat it back to them. In communicating with my supervisor I am more direct and serious when speaking to her. I used more of my listening skills other than non verbal gestures that may be misunderstood when communicating with her. The interaction is different from co-workers that are in the same position as me. I am more relaxed and comfortable in my communication I use more non verbal gestures and even slang to communicate. When communicating with teachers, I utilize non verbal, verbal, body gestures and more listening skills. I take into consideration their background, emotions, and their perspectives when talking with them. I think that strategies that will be helpful to me are, be mindful and respectful of other people perspectives, make sure your communication is clear and convey the right message, be aware of what is appropriate and what is not in all groups of cultures and situations.

Week 2

As I watched Hello Jessie without sound I could tell that there were a conflict between Jessie and other character ( a lady) on the show. Both facial expressions related that message to me. The second character uses a lot of facial expressions by moving her eyes up and down when she spoke to Jessie. She also kept her arms folded like she was upset and really wanted to make sure Jessie understood her intentional non verbal language. Jessie also use expression that was contradicting, at first Jessie was just watching the second character use her verbal and nonverbal skills to transmit her message, then  Jessie start relating more with the use of non verbal language she used her arms body and facial expression to get her point across to the other lady. I could tell from their non verbal language that Jessie was getting upset. Jessie pointed her finger in a strong forceful manner at the lady, and then walked away. If I was to analyze her action with words I would say, aha “She told her where to go”.  Jessie’s  action was much louder than her words.

However after watching the show again with the volume turned on my assumption was correct. There was conflict between the two. Both ladies could not agree on the setting for a school play that they were assisting with. Both Jessie and the other lady were very intentional with the use of their non verbal language. Their facial expressions exhibit an angry dissatisfy person who wanted to be heard and listen too. However neither Jessie nor the lady wanted to pay attention to gestures and codes that could have helped clarify the issue.

Competent Communication

Maya Angelou is a person that stands out as an effective communicator. Her voice is so control that it demands attention. She uses her voice to captivate her audience, and her facial expressions keeps you focus waiting for her next statement. I have always admired Maya Angelou for her ability to communicate effectively in getting her point across too others. I remember reading an article about Ms. Angelou where she exhibit such effective communication skills she landed a job as being a street car conductor, this made her the first black woman to hold that position. Ms. Angelou body language expression shows confidence, and proper behavior in conveying her point.  She has the ability to influence people with just her distinctive voice. If I could model some her competent communication skills it would be her voice control and her ability to speak clear and distinguished with any audience.