Personal Reflection on course based research
1. Lessons learned
• Group work ( how to work as a team, got to learn behaviors of other people, how to help
each other by being empathetic, helping vulnerable members of team ( walk with them on
their pace , which will help to learn working with clients on their pace as a social worker),
Learn skills from each other in team ( time management skills, poster designing skills, use of
power point)
• Poster designs, Learned to how to design in power point will add to my future course
studies in next term
• Awareness about self-care routines I can also use in my daily life and this is also essential to
self-care as a social worker( can explain about self-care routines useful for social worker)
• Research methods- Revised the research methods we had learned in class and learned to
apply those in practice to collect data. Qualitative and quantitative research methods,
sampling methods, research designs ( Include everything from attached documents)
2. Limitations
• Difficulties facedIt was Difficult to get hold of people for research. It seems not many people are
interested in surveys. It was Difficult to get hold of professors of classes after many
attempts.
• Small sample- When we went in classes 70 % of students were gone, so we could not
get large sample. it was because we got last few minutes of classes
3. THINGS THAT COULD HAVE DONE DIFFENTLY•
For large sample- Delivering questionnaires through black board that could have helped
us to get large sample, Plan ahead of time ( Giving them more time at-least a week to
complete questions and collect after),
4. My PERFORMANCE•
Selection of topic and method- work with team in selection of topic and data collection
methods and strategies are going to be used
•
Helping in data collection- Going in classes to distribute questionnaires and
introducing our research topic to students, taking their consents to completing research
Power point presentation- Making power point to present our research proposal in
class
Work in collaboration with team to design poster, providing recommendations where
needed
Presenting in class
•
•
•
Discussion
Our results revealed that first-year diploma students utilize a variety of self-care
strategies and activities. The most popular mindfulness activities were music, meditation and
breathing techniques. We also found that the students used physical activities as an outlet for
stress such as working out, running, and walking their dogs. In terms of social activities, many
students enjoyed spending time with their friends and family. The most popular spiritual activity
was going to church and praying.
The students found these activities important in order to prevent burn-out; maintain
mental, emotional and physical balance; stay healthy, fit and happy; to feel less stressed and
more relaxed and at ease. While many of the students found the activities and practicing self-care
to be important, they struggled to find time between classes, work and practicum. The students
revealed how they would try to make time when possible as it helped them focus on their school
work better and perform better academically.
The results revealed to us how self-care means something different to everyone, but it
still holds the same level of significance. Our results were beneficial to future social work
students who are unsure of the importance of self-care, what it means, or what activities others
use. Looking upon our results would provide them with ideas of different strategies they could
try to help them understand what self-care means to them. Our research will help future social
work students understand the significance of self-care within the social work profession by
hearing past students reflections upon the program and profession.
Course-Based Research Information Letter for Participation and
Informed Consent Form
What’s self-care got to do with it? Exploring effective self-care strategies among firstyear social work diploma students at MacEwan University
Introduction
Our names are Carrie, Jasmine, Manpreet, Patricia, & Shaylagh, and we are third year
students in the Bachelor of Social Work Program at MacEwan University. We are
conducting a small course-based research study for the purpose of learning self-care
habits of first-year social work diploma students. Our course instructor is Dr. Hongmei
Tong, she can be contacted at tongh8@macewan.ca or 780-633-3619 should you have
any questions.
Purpose of Research
The purpose of this course-based research study is to benefit social work diploma
students as they learn the importance of maintaining self-care practices within the social
work profession.
Why Me?
You are being asked to participate in this course-based research study because you are the
next generation to step into the field of Social Work. By doing this research, we hope to
gain a better understanding of first-year social work diploma students and their self-care
strategies. With that understanding, we hope to expand your awareness of the importance
of self-care practices within the social work profession. Having an effective self-care
strategy will reduce the chances of burn-out, fatigue, and stress.
What is Being Asked of Me?
If you agree to participate in this study, you will be asked to complete a short survey
about your current self-care practices.
Potential Risks
There are no anticipated risks of participating in this study. This course-based research
study involves no more than minimal risks and discomforts.
Benefits and Remuneration
In terms of benefits, your answers are important in helping us to understand your selfcare strategies within the field of social work. There is no remuneration for your
participation in the research.
Voluntary Participation and Withdrawal
Your participation in the research is completely voluntary. You may withdraw at any
point without consequence or explanation. If you do choose to withdraw your data will
not be included in the study without your written permission apart from the survey data,
which cannot be traced back to you.
Confidentiality
The entire survey will be confidential; no names are required. After gathering and
interpreting your data, the surveys will be destroyed. We will hand out the surveys at the
beginning of your class and collect them when you are finished.
Informed Consent
Before you agree to participate in this course-based research project, you must provide
informed consent by responding to the following statements:
I understand the purpose of the course-based research project and have been given the
opportunity to ask questions of the principle researcher yes ( ) no ( )
I understand that my participation is completely voluntary and that I can withdraw at any
time without consequence or explanation yes ( ) no ( )
I understand that every attempt will be made to maintain anonymity of my identity and
confidentiality of my data yes ( ) no ( )
By your completion of this Information Letter and Consent form and checking the
appropriate box above, you are giving informed consent for the use of your responses in
this research.
[ ] I agree to participate
[ ] I do not agree to participate
Warmest regards,
Carrie, Jasmine, Manpreet, Patricia, Shaylagh
Third Year Students
Bachelor of Social Work Program
Discussion
Our results revealed that first-year diploma students utilize a variety of self-care
strategies and activities. The most popular mindfulness activities were music, meditation and
breathing techniques. We also found that the students used physical activities as an outlet for
stress such as working out, running, and walking their dogs. In terms of social activities, many
students enjoyed spending time with their friends and family. The most popular spiritual activity
was going to church and praying.
The students found these activities important in order to prevent burn-out; maintain
mental, emotional and physical balance; stay healthy, fit and happy; to feel less stressed and
more relaxed and at ease. While many of the students found the activities and practicing self-care
to be important, they struggled to find time between classes, work and practicum. The students
revealed how they would try to make time when possible as it helped them focus on their school
work better and perform better academically.
The results revealed to us how self-care means something different to everyone, but it
still holds the same level of significance. Our results were beneficial to future social work
students who are unsure of the importance of self-care, what it means, or what activities others
use. Looking upon our results would provide them with ideas of different strategies they could
try to help them understand what self-care means to them. Our research will help future social
work students understand the significance of self-care within the social work profession by
hearing past students reflections upon the program and profession.
Statement of Research Questions
What types of self care activities are practiced by first year diploma
students at Macewan University during the school year?
1.
2.
3.
What are the activities that the students take part in?
How important is self care to their daily, weekly, monthly routine?
What are some of the challenges that they face in carrying out
effective self care routines?
Upcoming Group Assignments & Dates
Assignment
Description
Due Date
Weight
6-1: Updated CourseBased Research
Proposal
Based on the feedback prof
gave us in class PLUS
addition of Sampling
Methods (which will be
covered in class on Feb. 5th
in time for us to add it and
submit it the following day)
Wednesday,
Feb. 6th
(11:59PM)
2 Marks
Assignment 1:
Research Proposal &
Ethics Application
Presentation
Final (updated)
Research Proposal &
Ethics Application
In-class presentation:
● Research proposal
● REB form- Patricia
● Letter of consent
form- Shaylagh
● Copy of surveyCarrie
● Powerpoint
presentationManpreet
● Literature reviewJasmine
Tuesday,
Feb. 26th
(2:00PM)
Part of Assignment 1 updated version based on
feedback received in class
on February 26th.
Thursday,
Feb. 28th
(11:59PM)
Complete
X
18 Marks
Poster Presentation
Assignment 2:
Final Research Poster
March 26th
Including results from study
& discussion
Tuesday,
April 2nd
(11:59PM)
15 Marks
Assignment – 1: Course-Based Research Proposal and Ethics Application
Working collaboratively in groups assigned by the instructor, you will conceptualize, design, and
implement a course-based research project using traditional or creative modes of inquiry. This
will involve the development of a 4 to 6-page course-based research proposal (see criteria
below). You will present your course-based research proposal in class (February 26th) to the
Social Work Course-Based Research Ethics Panel formed by the instructor.
You will email a copy of your draft course-based research proposal to the course instructor in
advance of your presentation.
The 4 to 6-page course-based research proposal should include the following sub-headings:
STATEMENT OF PROBLEM
TEAM MEMBER:
This is an explanation as to why you chose the topic you did and describe the significance of
examining this topic
TYPE OF RESEARCH DESIGN
TEAM MEMBER:
Refer to module 1 Powerpoint
PURPOSE OF STUDY
TEAM MEMBER:
Refer to module 1 Powerpoint
RESEARCH PARADIGM
TEAM MEMBER:
Refer to module 2 Powerpoint
LITERATURE REVIEW
TEAM MEMBER:
Small scale literature review - summarize findings from previous research and discuss how our
particular research is different.
STATEMENT OF RESEARCH
QUESTION
TEAM MEMBER:
BENEFITS
TEAM MEMBER:
How will the research/study be beneficial to Social Work students and field?
SAMPLE METHOD
TEAM MEMBER:
(i.e. How will you select your sample? How many subjects will be involved in the study?)
DATA COLLECTION
METHODOLOGY
TEAM MEMBER:
(Survey, questionnaire, interviews, art-based, observation methods, using existing data,
other?)
DATA ANALYSIS
METHODOLOGY
TEAM MEMBER:
DISSEMINATION OF FINDINGS
TEAM MEMBER:
The following documents MUST also be attached to your draft course-based research
proposal:
TASK
TEAM MEMBER RESPONSIBLE
MacEwan University course-based research
project REB Application Form - Form #1
Information letter/Recruitment Notice (Letter
of consent form)- Form # 2
Our Survey
NOTE: See blackboard link to access forms. Course-based research proposals and REB
application not presented in class will not be graded. A specific grading rubric will be in
Blackboard to assess your pc application presentation.
Assignment 2 - Research Poster (April 2nd)
For this assignment, you are required to prepare a professional poster (minimum size 2 x 4 ft) of
your course-based research project. The professional design of your research poster must include
the following:
1. Name of researcher(s)
2. Title of course-based research project
3. Research context
4. Purpose of research
5. Research question(s)
6. Type of research design
7. Research paradigm
8. Sample
9. Data collection method
10. Data analysis method
11. Results
12. Discussion
SAMPLE RESEARCH PROPOSAL (Retrieved from course Blackboard page)
A Qualitative Course-Based Investigation into Child and Youth Care Practicum
Students and Their Concept of Personal and Professional Boundaries
Research Team:
Introduction Statement
As Child and Youth Care students, the topic of boundaries can be confusing and intimidating.
The subject of boundaries is not concrete, nor black and white, rather it is a very subjective
matter. While students explore the field of Child and Youth Care, it is with awareness that
boundaries are a critical aspect of the therapeutic relational work that is done within our
practice. It is essential to grasp hold of the value of boundaries while working with a vulnerable
population. The reason behind the value is to ensure emotional, physical, spiritual and mental
wellness for the practitioner/student and the child, youth and/or family. When entering the field
of Child and Youth Care, practicum students carry individual life experiences, which influences
their concept of personal and professional boundaries. Professional boundaries provide
individuals with limits to the relationship based on ethical regulations within professional
standards, as well as defined roles and structures provided by organizations. On the contrary,
personal boundaries are guided by personal values, beliefs and choices as well as personal
characteristics and experiences. The study focuses on first, second and fourth year practicum
students and explores how their gender, age and culture influences their concept of boundaries.
Type of Research
The type of research we will be conducting will be exploratory research. The study will be
qualitative, course-based and interpretive. We will be exploring our fellow CYC students
understanding of professional and personal boundaries in the context of their field placements.
Purpose of the Study
Our purpose for conducting this research is to benefit students within the Child and Youth Care
program so that they feel empowered by what constitutes boundaries. The purpose is for
students to gain awareness on the concepts of boundaries within their field placements. The
study is aimed to define personal boundaries as well as professional boundaries for those
entering the field. The purpose is to outline how a student’s understanding of professional and
personal boundaries challenges their relational practice and vice versa.
Statement of Research Question
Is there a difference in how first, second and fourth year Child and Youth Care practicum
students perceive “appropriate” or “inappropriate” personal and professional boundaries
throughout their field placements experiences? And, does their age, gender and culture play a
factor?
Dimension of the Research
The dimension of our research is Applied research because it is with desire that we explore and
gain knowledge on the subject. Applied research is one type of research that is used to answer
a specific question that has direct applications to the world. This is the type of research that
solves a problem.
Benefits of the Study to the Field of Child and Youth Care
The benefit that our study has to the field of Child and Youth Care is that we are aiming to
provide awareness and provoke thought on the concept of boundaries within field placement
students. To add, we are aiming to create a sense of competency and comfort for practicum
students and provide insight on creating personal and professional boundaries.
Research Paradigm
Because our focus is based on social reality, our course based study is grounded in the
interpretive paradigm. This view embraces that human social reality is constructed more on a
person’s beliefs, ideas and perceptions that people hold regarding their reality. These ideas and
beliefs can include family, social, educational learning; life experiences, moral and faith based
teachings, cultural and gender experiences. It is these personal and social attributes that CYC
students bring into their field placements and attempt to bring meaning to personal and
professional boundaries.
Sample Method
A nonprobability, purposive, convenience sampling strategy will be used to recruit participants
for this course-based study. We are selecting our samples by focusing on first, second and
fourth year students who are involved in field placements. Are aim is to survey 30% of the
student population within field placements in first, second and fourth year combined (a target 45
students in total). We will seek permission from professor Gerard Bellefeuille and instructor
Angila Chase to attend first, second and fourth year classes for approximately five minutes. We
will be introducing ourselves to the students along with providing a description of our research
topic, why we are conducting the research, and how we will be gathering data. All participants
will sign a letter of consent and one page survey questionnaire.
Data Collection Methods
Our data collection method is to have students complete a short survey following the showing of
a short three to five minute IMovie depicting images, videos, and personal clips of us as CYC
students. The IMovie will be available for viewing on the platform of YouTube.
Participating students will have two options to watch the YouTube video. The first option will be
in class following our introduction of the course-based research project (the last 10 minutes of
their class). The second option is to watch the YouTube video at home.
Participating students will also have two options to complete the survey. They will be given a
hardcopy survey in class that they can complete after class and drop it off to the CYC office in a
confidential survey collection box. They will also have the option to complete a confidential
online survey via the Survey Monkey tool.
Data Analysis
The thematic analysis method will use to analyze data to identify themes. The sequence of
analysis consists of the six processes that are suggested by Braun and Clarke: (1) familiarizing
oneself with the data, (2) generating initial codes, (3) searching for themes, (4) reviewing and
refining themes, (5) defining and naming themes, and (6) producing a report.
Data Presentation
The results of the course-based study will be presented at a public CYC research poster
showcase on November 28th at MacEwan University.
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attachment