As we are wrapping up the class, we looked at the conclusion/discussion section of a study. This is my favorite part because it summarizes the findings, should tell what the next steps are and what the results mean. Although I am still skeptical about all studies (because I really think you can prove whatever you want to), I do find the most valid information in this section. As we finish all of our work, I cannot believe this class is already finished. I am lucky to have the SpEd assessments class before this, because I feel that I was only able to increase my knowledge of the studies.

This quote from C.S. Lewis is exactly how I feel about education and morals. I strongly believe that how people are raised and what they are surrounded by will teach them how to respond on social moral situations. I have met several people in my life who are not religious and claim they are atheists, but have a stronger sense of morals than some I know who have grown in the church. Many of my students live in households where morals and values are not held in high regard or the parents are not home with the children very often. It is our job to teach these students the difference between right and wrong. Although sometimes we can learn through our experiences, we should teach students the consequences of their actions, whether they are natural or handed down to them.

I am actually interested in single subject research methods. As a special educator with several students with behavior problems, this design is great for behavior modification. Since this method is great for studying a problem in detail, this is probably what I would use in my classroom most often.

Today, we focused on qualitative research. Like Frank said, it is harder to understand but I like it a lot better. I love how qualitative research allows us the chance to see people as individuals with circumstances that shape us, and not just numbers. In quantitative research, we are only looking at the facts and figures of the subjects. Although this can be helpful, it does not allow any room for individual thoughts or differences to be shown. I also agree that qualitative research can be biased depending on the researcher. Even in my own classroom, I tend to let things slide if I know a student who is going through troubles vs. a student who just isn’t completing work. Fair doesn’t always mean equal.