Tuesday, April 24, 2018

When I think of Research.....

 Going into this research class, I was originally in a panic.  The first assignment was to choose a research topic.  I was like OMG!! How in the world was I going to complete this magnitude of research in 8 weeks and keep my sanity?  I was in a panic, but it turned out that we were doing a simulation! (Thank God!!)   

I decided to focus on Montessori preschool versus traditional preschool for my simulation.  I had asked many educators and parents the differences, but most of them thought the quality of education was the same.  I could not find anyone that was opposed to either option.  So, I wanted to see if there was a significant difference between the two styles of teaching.  Which style was more effective when the students took their kindergarten entrance exams?  Which child developed more cognitively and psychologically?   I felt as if this information would be important and impactful to the field of education.  Educators and parents need to know which style is more effective.  Why the style is more effective?  Lastly, when can you really begin to see the results? 

The results would be beneficial to educators, parents, and students.  The results would impact children the most.  They have no control over where and how they get their education.  This would also give parents another opportunity to build upon a great foundation for their child’s education.  I believe that knowledge is power.  We just have to gain knowledge then exercise our power.


 That is also why I am happy that I gained so much knowledge through my research class.  I didn’t allow the fear of the unknown to ruin my experience.  Working in an educational hospital, I am around research very frequently.  I now have a deeper understanding of the terminology and regulations for each trial.  I have also spoken to several physicians that have taken very similar classes.  I have grown to respect and appreciate research and the time it takes to make it valid.  Although, my perception of the field of early childhood education has not changed, research is now something I respect and could possibly enjoy.     

2 comments:

  1. Alisha,
    This research topic is such an important one. I personally will be moving with my family to another city. During this process, I will be looking for schools. Montessori was one of the options, versus other schools with other appealing things. I am confused as which one would be best for my daughter.
    It was being in the same group, I wish you all the best in your upcoming courses.
    Asilah Trabulsi

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  2. Hi Alisha!
    I have to agree with you that in the beginning, I to was in a bit of a panic. Research has never been my favorite thing and reading research studies has always been a little stressful for me. I am happy to say that it does not bother me so bad after this class, and I will look at research in a very different way from here on out. I believe it would be very interesting to carry out your simulation and know details and the difference in traditional preschool and Montessori. I have really enjoyed reading your blog and wish you much success.

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