Sunday, June 24, 2012

When I Think of Research.....

I have to say after this course I see research in a whole new light. I have learned that there is way more to research than just finding a random article on the internet and obtaining information from it. I have learned that you must take your time when selecting articles because most of the information on the internet is not valid!

My ideas about the research process has changed completly. I realize now that you must have valid information along with consent forms if your planning on involving individuals within the process. I have learned that there is more than one method to completing the research and this could help with getting them most valid results. I have also learned that the research project results need to out weigh any risks that might be taken within the process. With all this said I know I still have a lot to learn with this process.

I have to say this entire course was a challenge for me because I didn't understand all the steps to conducting a good research study. Completing the charts each week were helpful and I did reference back to them on a number of occasions.

My perception of an early childhood educator have changed because I didn't realize how much research was involved within the occupation. I hope to get better at this process so I can prosper within my career choice one day!

Sunday, June 3, 2012

Early Childhood Development In Australia

Current Topics in Australia:
One of the articles that I found interesting was how they were hoping to gain a higher budget for childhood programs. They have share some of the same beliefs that the U.S. when it comes to funding a child's education. They also feel the importance of compensating their childhood educators in order to provide a quality education to children. I thought this was interesting considering the U.S. is also fighting this battle.

New Ideas/Insights:
Australia is also big on providing children with a healthy lifestyle and focus on fighting obesity and malnutrition within their education system. They provide resources on their websites that you can get ideas off of on how to live a healthy lifestyle such as eating a balanced meal and exercising.

Other Information:
The Early Childhood Organization focuses strictly on quality, justice, and equity of children and the education they are receiving. They act as a voice for these children to make sure they are getting the education that they deserve. I think this is a great idea because a lot of times it seems like the education system is always getting taking advantage of with all the budget cuts, untrained professionals, and lack of resources. It would be nice to have a group of people fight for the rights of education and restore equality back into it.