My experience with the Laidlaw research project has been transformative. I revised the methodologies of my project multiple times throughout the course of the first four weeks. This was surprising given that I initially went into research with the belief I would conduct interviews over surveys to obtain a better overview of the effectiveness of the new curriculum in NYC elementary schools. However, I realized that my preferred methodology involved statistical analysis and compilation of large data sets. My mentor has played a major role in my enjoyable experience in the program. Professor Kitzmiller has allowed me to narrow down my research interests with her guidance. I was initially interested in looking at how the environment and economics of the area a child is raised in affects their educational outcomes but was unsure of what specific factor to measure. I also found that talking to other scholars has expanded my global knowledge and provided me with different perspectives on how to improve my research methodologies. As I speak with my peers, I have also learned more about theories in disciplines such as sociology and theories. These learnings have also allowed me to analyze the articles during my literature review in a better manner.
Exploring and Improving Research Methodologies
Over the past 6 weeks, I have refined my project: The effects of the technological divide on the NYC Reads Program in elementary schools in Queens.