ABSTRACT
Whilst recognising the numerous forms educational research can take, this chapter is specifically designed as a guide for practitioners and students who are undertaking small-scale research projects, many for the first time. The main stages of planning and organising your own research project are outlined, and the distinct role of the practitioner-researcher is explored. This chapter focuses on participatory methodologies which foreground the perspectives of children and on action research as a way of developing and enhancing professional practice. The chapter is designed to assist practitioners and students in developing their own ethical and value-based framework for early childhood research and explore some of the challenges and dilemmas which need to be addressed to ensure your own project benefits all those involved. It is intended to support students to consider how to take a reflexive approach to the research design process, reflecting on key considerations at each stage.
