Week #2 Reflection

Reflection Week #2

This week I researched peer reviewed journal articles on technology and parental communication. I had a week to complete this assignment.  Finding relevant information pertaining to my specific topic was a daunting task; however, I was able to submit the annotated bibliography on time.

I found that the meeting with Dr. Dennis was invaluable.  While it is still a challenge navigating through all the databases, the more experience I gain the more confident I become.  Reading numerous articles allowed me to review the various research for utilizing social media and technology to communicate with parents.

I have completed annotated bibliographies in my masters program in education. However, these assignments required only five to ten articles. As I reflect on what I did then and what I am required to do now, I realize I struggled at times to synthesis information and grasp the terminology.

I also completed an annotated bibliography for Dr. Tamin’s class.  The focus was on constructivism and using technology in the classroom.  For this particular assignment I had to research a total of twenty articles.  For this class there are many similarities and the process is the same throughout.  While it is certainly difficult and frustrating at times to find 60 articles pertaining to my topic it gives me a great starting point and a variety of research to pick from for my literature Review.

Using an outline definitely helps me to organize my research. As I read the articles, I fill in the summary, methods, limitations, and note how it relates to my study and what other articles I need to research. I made a template for each article I read.  I need to become more comfortable reading the information via computer versus using a paper copy.

I appreciated your advice about reading three to four articles a night. Breaking up the reading in increments is much more manageable than reading twenty articles at once.  

For now I have printed all my all articles so that I could highlight, take notes and underline. I have gone through 3 packs of paper and one toner cartridge already!  I may need to work on reading and comprehending the articles in digital form.

I was overwhelmed at first. This is a process that takes time to develop. The more articles I read the more confident I became in synthesizing information. Areas I need to improve in are a more effective way of taking notes. Also, I didn't utilize Refworks as much as a should have.  I think over the long term having a document list of resources will be extremely helpful.   

My next plan of action is to research articles of parent engagement/involvement.  I think there will be a lot more information available on this particular topic.  My advice would be to break up the work and if you need a break, take a break.  Make sure you take time to walk away and allow yourself to reflect.