When I Think of Research.....

The insights I have gained about research from taking this course is that there is a lot of work and effort that goes into doing research, and a lot of information obtain as a result of it.  I am glad that I learned how to look for reputable information when doing research, and how to determine what makes a research study more valid.

My ideas about doing research haven't changed much.  I still think it's a complicated process that requires special people to do it, but I don't think I'm one of those people.  I will be willing to read the results, but I don't think I want to be the one doing the actual research.

The lessons I learned is to make sure that you are researching a topic that you are interested in, and to develop the research questions thoroughly in order to be able to move forward with the next steps of the research process.  One challenge I encountered was that my research questions was initially too broad and it hindered me from moving on with the next steps in the research process.  I am glad I have some excellent feedback during this class that helped me to sort out the steps that were the most challenging for me.

My perceptions have been modified because I have gained a new respect for the people that do research.  I understand that there is a definite need for research in order to find answers to important questions that will benefit the early childhood field, as well as, many other areas.  I'm glad there are those out there who are committed to doing research in order to provide others with a better understanding of the various questions of this world.

Thanks to everyone for being so supportive during this course.  I hope you all have gained a better understanding of the research process.  Good luck in the future!!!

Research Around the World

Early Childhood Development Virtual University (ECDVU) Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is committed to  improving the quality of life for children and their families in Africa.  Their efforts are continent wide efforts with ECD leaders addressing capacity building and leadership development in Africa.


Some of the current research topics include: Leadership skills training for administrators and parent support training for caregivers, 2) Curriculum development  using community resources, 3)Strengthening the capacity of grandparents in providing care for children less than 8 years old affected by HIV/AIDS, 4)Assessment of interaction and stimulation in single parent low income families, 5)Involving fathers in early childhood care and development.


Insights about early childhood from exploring this international early childhood site:  ECDVU uses a generative curriculum approach. Some characteristics of this approach is 1)learner-focused approach which is drawing as much as possible on the learner's experiences in their personal and professional lives 2)ecological approach-placing individuals, programs and policies into an interactive and dynamic context and seeking to plan activities and interventions to maximize resonating impact throughout the larger ecology 3) capacity building approach-aiming to strategically strengthen the capacities of participants to effectively fulfill their mandates in their professional position and to be accountable to their constituents and the broader ECD community in their countries.  Although most education activities claim this a general purpose, the ECDVU addresses capacity development in a specific strategic manner.


-ECDVU sees great potential in leadership capacity building through face to face interviews, on the job learning, web-based learning and network building.
-ECDVU candidates were chosen by their country committees as emergent leaders to function as key interactors within  and outside their countries.  Participation in ECDVU is an investment in improving the well being of children, families, and communities in their countries.  Participants are evaluated in terms of their effectiveness in moving forward 'agendas for children' in their countries.   






http://www.ecdvu.org/ssa/index.php
http://www.ecdvu.org/ssa/major_reports.php