Insights Gained:
The greatest insight I have gained about research from this course is that it is a very complex process that requires a great deal of thought and planning. Researchers have to determine the type of research they want to complete and then develop a design that will aid them in conducting and analyzing the research. Along the way the researchers need to be aware of ethical issues that could affect the results of the research. I also gained the insight that in the field of early childhood education research is very important to understanding and or explaining certain issues that are prevalent.
Changed Ideas on the Nature of Research:
I used to believe that in research you picked a topic, collected data, and reported on the data. I now know that research is far more intricate than that and there are several issues that have to be considered when planning and conducting research. I had never truly understood the nature of completing research before this class but I am now aware that research is built around a very specific design based on the type of research being used. I also had never considered the ethical issues that have to be addressed in the planning stage of research. In completing the research simulation for this class my ideas about the nature of research changed because I realize what a daunting task developing a research design can be but how each step will be worth it for the end result.
Lessons Learned: 
The most important lesson I learned about planning research is how aware a researcher must be of the feasibility of a research project. Answering questions like what kind of participants will be used, where the research will be conducted, and if there will be enough time and money is very important in the planning stages. I learned that once a topic has been decided on and the research has been planned then the design must be made. The most important lesson I learned about design is that there are many different designs that can be used. It is at this point that all aspects of the research need to be considered in order for the right design to be chosen. I also learned that sometimes there is value in using mixed design research because the different designs offer beneficial steps in the research project. The most important lessons I learned about conducting research is that a researcher has to be sure that the subjects are treated with respect and caring during the research process. The subjects have to be made aware of the research objectives and must give consent while being assured of confidentiality. Researchers need to take the appropriate steps in conducting research to be sure that ethical conditions are met and that their research can be proven valid. I think the greatest thing that I learned about research in general is that it is a very complex process that takes a LOT of work and dedication.
Challenges: 
I think that the greatest challenge I encountered was in trying to figure out what type of design to use in my research simulation. I knew the topic that I wanted to study but determining how to study it was a different question. I could see the value in using each type of design. In the end I met the challenge by using the design that I felt would lead my research to be the most reliable and valid and would make it easier for other researcher who might want to use the results. Advice from Dr. Dartt and my colleagues helped to make the class and the decisions that I had to make about my research simulation easier as well.
Modified Perceptions:
I never really looked at an early childhood professional as being a researcher as well but since taking this course and being involved in a research simulation myself, I realize what a difference an early childhood professional could make to the area of research. This course has shown me that an early childhood professional could be at the forefront of evidence based research that could change the field of early childhood education. It is just another way that early childhood professionals can work toward making the future brighter for the children of this world!
Heartfelt Thanks: 
Some days I become so overwhelmed by my work load in school and in life that I’m not sure how I would be able to go on. Then I get on the student lounge or read a blog posting from one of my colleagues or a good comment from the professor and I realize that I can do this. I am truly blessed to have had the privilege to work with and learn from each and every one of you (Dr. Dartt and colleagues) and I will take the advice, knowledge, and kind words with me and use them as my rainbows on those cloudy days when it seems there is no end in sight. I thank you from the bottom of my heart and I wish all of you many blessings and the best that this life has to offer for your future. God Bless!!
