2025-11-19 Jenkins, Blog Post #5 - What I've Learned
I definitely learned a lot more specifics about methods in this class, where originally I was primarily only focused on qualitative vs. quantitative; there are a lot more different types of studies, and it was cool to be able to look at those in-depth. What really stood out to me was all the measures of rigor and how important those are, which I had never considered before. For example, the RAD (replicable, aggregable, data-supported) rule, internal vs. external validity, etc., were all new to me and very good to learn. I also got practice with writing a literature review, which was very insightful and gave me a new experience and perspective in approaching research. One thing I have learned, as it relates to my future roles in TWDR, is that I really like doing research. I like constructing a study from my questions about something I want to learn, and actually being able to go through with it, learning something new, and adding to the current body of knowledge with my findings. I hope to continue researching and eventually publish a study sometime in the future.
I agree, learning about all the different types of studies there are out there was great. Logically I knew there was more to research than just qualitative and quantitative, but it was nice to be taught about what other types of studies are and how they are performed. Now I know them by name and can add them to my backpack of knowledge! Also I completely relate to loving research. My research writing class in my undergrad had a final project of 10-15 pages on any topic to do with rhetoric, and I was probably the only one in that class who straightened in my seat and got super excited at the thought of being given time to research something that interests me. I think about it like solving a puzzle or hunting for treasure. It's frustrating, but once you find that one source you need (or even realize that source doesn't exist) it's kind of a rush! I adore research and I wish I could just be a professional researcher my whole life.
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