Journal
Monday, May 2nd 2011
Today I submitted another research proposal update:
Research question: In what ways can storyboarding and animation creation enable primary school students to articulate and consolidate their conceptual understanding?
Data for the articulation component will come from the children’s animation voice-over texts. Conceptual consolidation will be documented through the various versions of the student-generated data. Further insights into the children’s learning will be occasioned by the director’s commentaries which would be recorded on a weekly basis rather than just at the completion of the project.
My proposed research methodology is action research and I am aware that my position as researcher/teacher needs to be clearly defined within this tradition.
Once the panel is satisfied that I have a workable research question I will endeavour to meet our previously discussed timelines.
Friday, May 6th 2011
I have received approval to proceed with this proposal until my new supervisors are appointed.
Monday, May 9th 2011
Over the weekend I started developing a new angle on my data analysis as follows:
The director's commentaries and voice over texts will be compared looking for alignment.
Previously, I would have assumed that these two should be aligned with the common ground (consolidated learning) being the educational goal.
I am now suggesting that the misalignment is actually the scope for further learning.
Friday, May 27th 2011
My confirmation seminar/meeting that took place yesterday went quite well and my proposal has been approved. This is quite a relief as I can now proceed with data collection next month after I take my proposal to the next school council meeting.
One of the panel members will also become one of my new supervisors which is an excellent outcome.