I do not have any experience with research projects or know of any families or children who have seen positive results from being part of a research project. However, I have been at a base that has implemented a trail program “Caring for People” The program is designed to ensure that airmen and families have adequate supports including family support, deployments support, special needs support and school support. The program was implemented in 2009 on a trial basis and its success has been greater than imagined. Many children and families have benefited from the support the Caring for People Coordinator was able to arrange.
In terms of research, I did come across a very good article while researching the topic of self-reflective practices, that provided an awesome quote. Professor Carole Richardson, author of the article The Reflective Teacher; The Value of Reflective Practice for Pre-service and Classroom Teachers, states,
It is through reflection on past experiences, on beliefs, on interactions with students, colleagues, parents, on future intentions, on our present situations, indeed, on every aspect of lives that we begin to identify the assumptions that frame the way in which we teach. (Richardson, 2005)
The article discusses in depth, the importance of self-reflection for early childhood professionals and is worthy of being read,as the quote alone is enough incentive to reflect on our own biases.
Richardson, C. (2005). The Reflective Teacher: The Value of Reflective Practice for Preservice and Classroom Teachers. International Journal of Learning, 12(6), 307-311. Retrieved from EBSCOhost 14 May 2011
Hi Sondi,
ReplyDeleteI think that the Caring for People program is a great program for the families of our soldiers. I have two cousins who are currently serving our country along with their families. These programs really do make a great impact on their lives.
Sondi,
ReplyDeleteI think that self reflection could be very helpful in research. Consistent reflection and review of reflections could probably be of much value to research to certain issues. Currently I do technical assistance with teachers and the biggest challenge is to just find time to reflect. Self reflection could be a key to sucessfully serving families.