Week 2

7/7/13

With the second week of Research in Music Education completed, I have found myself drawn to the discussion of variables in research.  I suppose, more so, that it's the variables in application to what is occurring in my classrooms each day.  Independent Variables versus Dependent Variables - the verbiage is actually quite deceptive.  When we consider the term "variable" we think of things that can be manipulated or solved for, like in mathematics.  Whereas, in this case, we have more of a "cause and effect" scenario, technically, VERBATIM.  The independent variables are the ones that can be more adjustable, the "what can we check" item of the research.  We can vary the ways that we look at things and determine what exactly we are trying to find.  I am looking at this almost like an equation: X+Y=Z.  The independent variables (X,Y), when researched will eventually result in a definitive answer (Z).  At least this is my interpretation of the procedure, ergo my formulated opinion. 

What are the variables in my own setting that are independent?  If we are seeking to answer specific questions about productivity in the program, are we looking at the proper things?  This is where the information gathered in the reading is becoming more useful.  As with the assessment course in the previous term, the verbiage and terminology is exposing a great deal to me that I did not fully understand or appreciate in the past.  This is why I am here - to grow professionally for myself and the people around me.