Research is more than studying a topic, gathering information about a concept, describing or sharing an idea. According to Leedy & Johnson (2019), research is a process of collecting, analyzing and interpreting informaiton based on a predetermined set of questions with the goal of understanding a phenomenon. It begins with a burning question or problem that has not been answered.
Research is a continual process with interations that direct future research. The primary activities of research is the analysis and interpretation of data collected through identified questions and hypothesis. It is important for the researcher to identify assumptions and biases they may impart through the research process. An interdisciplinary team approach to the study of a phenomenon brings together diverse perspectives that can better evaluate and interpret data through different lenses.
Technology is an important tool in every stage of the research process. It supports data collection, analysis, communication and dissemination of research. Technology supports researchers and teacher-authors to contribute and collaborate. Writing supports the authentication, consolidation, revision of knowledge, information and reflective practice (Rathert & Okan, 2015). It is through networking and collaboration utilizing technology that practitioners continue to learn and refine their skills. Online writing lends itself to networking through blogs, hyperlinks, images, videos and feedback through comments. Prior to Web 2.0 multimedia composition and collaboration was not possible (Hicks, 2009).
Digital platforms and open access publication has transformed how academics publish and share their research. Open access provides the public with the learning and knowledge gathered through research and classroom observations and practices. Open access digital journals support the peer review process of research, to verify, authentic and collaborate on future projects. According to Conte (n.d), open access journals positively impact research by increasing visibility, reducing the cost to access research and reduce the speed at which knowledge can be shared publically. Although open access may not be prestigious as esteemed academic journals, there are many benefits to open access publishing.
Autoethnography was a new concept for me through these modules readings – it is a very interesting research method to consider especially in light of current events. Autoethnography requires educators to consider who they are in relation to their student’s heritage, demographics and many other socio-economic factors. It is a process whereby educators explore who they are within their own history and culture and reflect how that affects how educators relate to their students, parents and the educational system. It is necessary for educators to obtain authentic knowledge of themselves – core beliefs; and how this impacts their educational philosophy and pedagogical practices (Starr, 2010). It is through autoethnography that teachers have the capacity and are better able to meet the needs of students in classrooms today.
References
Conte, S. (n.d.). Making the choice: Open access vs traditional journals. Retrieved from https://www.aje.com/arc/making-the-choice-open-access-vs-traditional-journals/
Hicks, T. (2009). Examining author’s craft for multimedia composition, Chapter 4. Digital writing workshop.https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/csuau/reader.action?docID=547006&ppg=63
Leedy P.D., Ormrod, J. E. & Johnson, L. R. (2019). The nature and tools of research. In Practical research: Planning and design (12th ed.) (pp. 1-29). New York: Pearson
Rathert, S., & Okan, Z. (2015). Writing for publication as a tool in teacher development. ELT Journal, 69(4), 363–372. https://doi.org/10.1093/elt/ccv029
Starr, L. J. (2010). The use of autoethnography in educational research: Locating who we are in what we do. Canadian Journal for New Scholars in Education/Revue canadienne des jeunes chercheures et chercheurs en éducation, 3(1), 1-9.