Activity 1

I decided on this research question as I noticed when carrying out a skills test with Leaving certificate students that most of them used a calculator to add up a very basic skills test outcome. 

• What topic, area, or question would you seek to investigate?

Does using a calculator in the classroom stop students from using their minds to work out basic math's such as addition.

• Who you would want to interview in order to find out about your chosen topic?

Individual students and teachers.

• How you would conduct the interview(s)?

Face to face and via Skype

• What you would do with the data (in terms of storage and transcribing)?

I would store written information in a folder in a locked filing cabinet and transcribed information on a password protected laptop or computer.

• How would you handle matters concerning gaining informed consent and confidentiality?

I would email a letter to participants explaining who I am, what research I am carrying out and the reason for this research.  I would also outline that how their data will be stored and how it will be used for research purposes. I would explain that this research is carried out on a voluntary basis and they can opt out at any stage. I would also ask for written consent to carry out the research and use their data.

• What ethical considerations specific to your topic/question would need to be addressed?

I would have to consider if my research could affect learner's with learning difficulties that might rely on the use of calculators to work out math's problems.  I would have to ensure they are represented correctly and not highlighted or made to stand out or look different in the classroom.