WHAT I HAVE LEARNED ABOUT COLLECTING DATA AS A NOVICE RESEARCHER

Abstract

This paper is an attempt to describe the experiences I have gone through, as an undergraduate student researcher, during the data gathering process. I will explain the different steps I have followed, for instance, reading how to carry out the data gathering process in order to understand what my contribution and what my role as researcher would be. In addition, I will illustrate the bracketing process I did in order to avoid interference with my assumptions and preconceptions on methodology and teaching materials. I will also describe the changes I have made as a result, in part, of a reflective process; for example, why I decided to narrow down the focus of my research based on the first three classroom observations. I will then describe the experiences of conducting a qualitative interview for the first time, from piloting the interview questions to the interviewing process itself. Finally, I will share my feelings on the affective experience of doing research with a co-researcher.