[Research Thus Far] I have really enjoyed my summer research thus far. I am learning how to use eDelphi survey methods to obtain different perspectives. While developing spreadsheets can be tedious, it is satisfying to see an idea manifest into a product (the rating grids) that will be used by several stakeholder groups. I am also learning about the process of IRB approval for a study. It is challenging when there are setbacks, like missing information in an IRB submission, but I have learned to problem solve. Rather than read an email several times over in an attempt to understand what I am missing, I scheduled a meeting to talk to the staff and break down the information. I have definitely learned to work smarter, not harder, through my past research experiences.
[Social Identities] Prenatal care is a service that is used by virtually all social identities. For this reason, when determining a core outcome set to create a more individualized and flexible approach to prenatal care, a range of social identities should be seen in the stakeholder groups that help develop the core outcome set. In this process, I am reminded to focus on social identities that may not be represented in research.
[Life as a Researcher] No matter how interested or passionate one may be in a project, summer research may be the last thing we want to do on a warm day. With June gone and July quickly moving along, I find myself eager to close my laptop and enjoy the weather. I hope everyone has the flexibility to take a day or two off during the week to enjoy their summer before August approaches.