When I Think of Research...

For my research simulation, I chose to observe and analyze the diverse neurological and behavioral responses that children demonstrate, who have experienced traumatic encounters. I believe it is important to the field of early childhood because it provides insight on how children respond to certain situations. This paves the way for educators, doctors, parents, and social workers to find ways to handle children's diverse responses and hopefully alleviate stress as a result of the trauma. Trauma has immense effects on the brain and can alter why children may have different neurological and behavioral responses. If I were to conduct this proposal, children would benefit because adults who work with them would better understand why they respond diversely to certain situations. 

My perceptions of the early childhood profession have modified as a result of this course because I understand the value of research. Research is beneficial not only to learn about children but to learn how we should work with and respond to children. The more we learn through research, the more educated we are on how to properly work with children of all different backgrounds and experiences. I am grateful to have taken this course because it provided a perspective on research that I had not appreciated before, and I feel better equipped to find credible research sources and use them in my career.

Thank you to all of my colleagues and to Dr. Todd for making this a wonderful and insightful 8 weeks! I feel more competent as an educator and researcher as a result of our discussions and feedback. :)