By Lynnece Edmond

 It is essential for researchers to collect data as a way to gather evidence to support their research question.  Collecting data provides researchers with answers to their research question.  As teacher researchers, collecting data enables us to assist our students with learning effectively, while providing them with the resources they need in order to construct knowledge from meaning.

 Professional Journals  Observations  Interviews  Student-Work Samples  Artifacts  Surveys  Peer Reviews  Photos  Audio Tapes According to Falk (2005), “As you decide to what kinds of data to use, think about how each source will help provide you with answers to your research questions”. (91)

While conducting research of my own on the impact various reading comprehension strategies has on student’s experiencing difficulties reading, I was able to relate with what I learned from Falk (2005) when she states, “try to select resources that will fit not only your research questions, but also the constraints of the school day and your school life” (91). I found the following methods to be highly effective, which enabled me to gain an abundance amount of information I used throughout the research process:  Observations/Field Notes  Interviews  Student Work Samples

 Qualitative Research Method  Be sure to record and describe what the students are actually doing and not any judgments of what you think they should be doing.  Patterns in students behavior and work habits can be observed and examined through observations and field notes.  While making observations and taking notes remember to: - Include the date, time and location - Be concrete and descriptive (describe rather than evaluate) - Use details

 According to Falk (2005), “The focus of naturalistic, qualitative research is to form deep understandings, to interpret and contextualize experiences” (97). For myself, this occurred during the interview process when I: * Developed and asked open-ended questions. * Composed an interview guide made up of questions used to assist and guide me throughout the process. * Analyzed and evaluated the topic of conversation, identifying key points and main ideas.

 Examining the work of a student is an effective way to analyze what the student is learning and generating with in the classroom, as well as independently.  Journals, worksheets, writing drafts, projects, checklists, rubrics and illustrations are examples of students work samples used while collecting data and conducting research.  Falk (2005) explains, “student work samples can be used to gather evidence that chronicle progress, uncover the nuances of how students approach their learning, and reveal students’ strengths and recurring interests”(102).

 Overall, there are several methods for researchers to use in order to collect essential data needed to support their research questions.  As teacher researchers, it is important for us to be flexible while collecting data and keep the needs of our students first. We must do this by not only using various methods to find the answers to our research questions, but also applying the findings to our teaching styles in order to help students grow academically.  I strongly agree with Denise Da Ros-Voseles and Linda Moss, authors of the journal article,“The Role of Dispositions in the Education of Future Teachers” (2007) when they express, “A sample of characteristics of positive teacher dispositions includes open-mindedness, respect, inquisitiveness, patience, and flexibility”(93).