Hold ups, trials and tribulations...

I have experienced problems gathering data as I had originally planned to collect this from secondary school age students in my classes. It now transpires that the use of any primary data collected from school age children is considered unethical by the University and is not allowed under any circumstances. It can still be used as secondary data however, but I have had to spend a great deal of time reconsidering my data collection methods.

For me this typified the kind of unexpected problems that can arise when carrying out a research project. It served to illustrate the importance of considering all eventualities in the planning process and how the flexible, cyclical nature of Action Inquiry (AI) lends itself to the modification of initial plans through its subsequent cycles. AI also requires the researcher to be prepared for situations changing and ensuring other alternatives are in place and ready to be implemented.

The other major problem was not being in cover lessons and instead invigilating in exams, which prevented me from collecting any relevant data.

Also:

• Husband was hospitalised nine days ago which made it extremely difficult to focus on degree work.
  

• My computer is working at snail's pace... making two of us working at the same pace now.
  

Tired... visiting hospital in neighbouring city can be very tiring so I will resume this post at a later date.