Research

Through coursework in EDF 703, EDF 625, and EDF 776, I developed the research, analytical, and ethical foundations essential to scholarly practice. Designing and conducting both qualitative and quantitative studies taught me how to balance interpretation with evidence and approach inquiry through multiple lenses. These experiences deepened my ability to translate data into meaningful insights, uphold ethical integrity, and apply research to improve early childhood education. This reflection represents not only my academic growth but also the continuation of a multigenerational legacy of learning—one rooted in curiosity, connection, and purpose.

Artifacts

Summary

In EDF 703: Research Design, I analyzed the dissertation “The Development of Phonological Awareness Skills in Preschool Children: From Syllables to Phonemes” to deepen my understanding of research structure, methodology, and ethical rigor. This analysis strengthened my ability to evaluate the alignment among research questions, design, data collection, and interpretation while connecting findings to early literacy development. Through this project, I gained practical insight into how research informs classroom practice—specifically how phonological awareness and linguistic complexity impact reading readiness.

This artifact supports the Research section by demonstrating my ability to critically analyze existing scholarship and apply evidence-based insights to educational practice. It highlights my growth as a developing researcher capable of interpreting data, assessing methodological quality, and using research to inform equitable, developmentally appropriate instruction in early childhood education.

Summary

In EDF 625: Qualitative Research, I conducted a pilot study titled “In What Ways, If Any, Is Play-Based Learning Incorporated into Early Literacy Skills in a Childcare Setting?” Using interviews, observations, and coding analysis, I explored how teachers integrate literacy within play-based environments. Findings revealed that intentional classroom setup, rich materials, and teacher modeling promote language, vocabulary, and literacy development through play.

This artifact supports the Research section by demonstrating my ability to design and conduct original qualitative research grounded in early childhood theory and practice. It illustrates my capacity to apply ethical inquiry methods, code and analyze data, and generate insights that bridge the Science of Reading with developmentally appropriate, play-based instruction.

Summary

n EDF 776: Computer Analysis for Doctoral Research, I collaborated with peers to analyze survey data from McNair Scholars using SPSS software. This project strengthened my ability to apply quantitative methods—including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and reliability analysis (Cronbach’s alpha)—to interpret data and draw evidence-based conclusions. The findings revealed students’ strengths in academic confidence and goal-setting while identifying growth areas in networking, research communication, and understanding graduate school processes.

This artifact supports the Research section by showcasing my development in quantitative research design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation. It reflects my ability to use research tools to evaluate educational programs, promote equity, and inform data-driven decision-making—skills that directly contribute to my growth as a scholar-practitioner in early childhood education.