ABSTRACT

This accessible book provides a step-by-step guide to carrying out educational research within the context of early years practice. Written by an expert team of authors who have supported many students through their dissertations, it will help you learn the skills necessary to develop ownership and understanding of the research process and successfully complete your dissertation or research project, while maintaining a work–life balance.

The chapters cover all elements of the research process, from advice on choosing a topic and working with your supervisor, to the different research methods you may employ. Ethical considerations and advice on collecting and analysing data and presenting your findings are presented alongside exploratory tasks, proformas and reflective questions, making it a useful companion for dissertation or research project modules. Crucially, the book understands that some undergraduate students may have additional responsibilities and introduces ways to manage workloads alongside caring or work responsibilities.

Aimed at those studying on Early Years Foundation Degrees or Early Childhood Studies courses, this is essential reading for all early years undergraduate students embarking on their first research project.

chapter |3 pages

Introduction

chapter 2|13 pages

Working with your supervisor

chapter 3|14 pages

Methodology and methods

chapter 4|13 pages

Gaining ethical approval

chapter 5|16 pages

Writing the literature review

chapter 6|11 pages

Data collection

chapter 7|7 pages

Data analysis

chapter 8|14 pages

Recommendations and conclusions

chapter 9|7 pages

Writing the abstract

chapter 10|6 pages

Staying sane

chapter 11|5 pages

A student journey