R&P1.

- Research Principles and PracticeStudents will demonstrate an understanding of research principals including basic statistics and
research/program evaluation design. Students will demonstrate the capacity to write literature
reviews and evaluate empirical research.
Research in Counseling a class taught by Dr. Stensrud provided me with the knowledge
necessary to critically analyze statistics and program evaluation design. Before the class, I was
unaware of the diverse research methodologies. Research methods are ingrained in all of us from
the time the first science project required in our high school years. One of the main differences
between high school science methodologies and graduate level research methods is the options to
choose from by students/researchers. From developing a hypothesis to gathering data to support
our hypothesis was the extent of critical thinking in high school science. During Coun 201 class I
explored two methodologies, case study, and grounded theory methodology. I am more
comfortable with the grounded theory methodology. As I conclude my journey, I plan on
referring to my notes, powerpoint presentations, and other resources during my professional
career. Although I am not a data expert, I would like to be well versed on the methods used by
the Iowa Department of Education when gathering and analyzing data to be a well-rounded
professional and proposed improvements using the principles of research principles.
A second artifact is an evaluation tool developed by myself and other colleagues. The
purpose of the tool is to identify areas of need and strength by each adult education and literacy
program. The assessment utilizes open-ended, and true or false questions. For further
development, I would like to test the tool by researching more in detail its validity and reliability.
For to expand my knowledge, I need to network and connect with other professionals who are
research experts.