Post #5 - Nov 4 - Last Blog Post

 a)  What have you learned about the processes of conducting a sound research study in class?

Oh, ya'll! I've learned a few fun facts that I didn't necessarily think about before. Maybe this class for me was less about learning about research and more about changing my perspective. I've written plenty of surveys before. But, how biased were my questions? Considering most of the surveys were collecting demographic data, it was probably fine. But I now have a better grasp on how to write clear, unbiased survey questions and understand the importance of detailed instructions. Just because I create the survey and understand the context does not mean that others can simply figure it out with no instructions. Maybe I'm just smarter than everyone. But probably not! I understand a bit more about the IRB process and need for complete transparency and protection of certain individuals. Most importantly, I've understood that Dr. B. is a magician and can turn any of my wacky topics into a PTW focus. I need to start thinking like a professor if I ever want to be one. ;)


b)  What have these processes taught you about your future roles as a technical and professional communicator?

I have honestly learned that I don't think about topics like a PTW major. I think about topics as a student writer. And, that's all I've ever had to really do. But now, after many chats with Dr. B, I can finally step back and understand the PTW focus--or that there is always a PTW focus that needs to be found. I've always liked research. I've never minded writing papers. But I'm actually excited to create a research study that will add to the body of knowledge within PTW. 

Comments

  1. Kim Kuhn English 3341November 4, 2020 at 6:38 PM

    Rachel, I love your post! And I completely agree with you that Dr. B is a magician. :) I learned the same thing about the surveys. In fact, I didn't realize how difficult it could be to be unbiased. I appreciate the information that we've learned in class to help us with making sure that our research studies maintain an unbiased opinion.

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    Replies
    1. Kim Kuhn English 3341November 4, 2020 at 6:40 PM

      Not sure why it says Engl 3341, buuuut this is for Eng 3450 :D

      Delete
  2. Emily MildenhallNovember 4, 2020 at 6:40 PM

    Hi, Rachel. I relate so much to your post! I had so many small misconceptions about research that were fine tuned in this class, and I too have learned to shift perspectives from a student writer to a PTW researcher. Thanks for all your peer review help, by the way! Both you and Dr. B were super helpful this semester!

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