Research and Scholarship

Research designs appropriate to quantitative and qualitative research questions

The first three artifacts demonstrate my ability to evaluate and synthesize various qualitative methodologies. They also support my competency in understanding the role of the researcher throughout the research process. I also demonstrated my understanding of research design by identifying research themes to answer the research question. The remaining artifacts demonstrate my knowledge of quantitative research and my experience with designing a research study.

Univariate and multivariate research designs and data analysis methods

The benchmark demonstrates my ability to engage in research design and analysis within quantitative research. The portfolio shows varying statistical techniques that I can use based on the research design and steps for analysis.

Qualitative designs and approaches to qualitative data analysis

In these artifacts, I evaluated and demonstrated my understanding of varying research designs. I showed my ability to code and analyze data from qualitative research.

Emergent research practices and processes

In the critical analysis, I demonstrate the ability to analyze and synthesize existing scholarship. The coding and analysis artifact reflects the ability to code data, thematically analyze, and interpret. The research proposal shows the planning of original qualitative research. The benchmark final article shows familiarity with the development of scholarly work and research practices.

Models and methods of instrument design

This artifact is designed as a research model and uses validated instruments in my research article. I assessed the validity and reliability of these instruments within my research.

Models and methods of program evaluation

As part of my internship experience, I held an internship with CACREP, which evaluates programs. I collected data from current chairs, committee members, and liaisons. I also gathered information for LU, which evaluated our program and other CACREP-accredited programs across the United States.

Research questions appropriate for professional research and publication

Professional writing for journal and newsletter publication

The career development paper demonstrates professional writing by synthesizing theory and practice. The capstone project explores a critical analysis of counseling theories. The final article submission exemplifies the ability to produce a manuscript that adheres to professional journal standards.

Professional conference proposal preparation

These artifacts demonstrate the conference proposals that I have submitted for the ACES and NCDA Conferences.

esign and evaluation of research proposals for a human subjects/institutional review board review

The research proposal addresses areas specific to designing a research study that uses human subjects. The second study uses data gathered after going through the internal review board process.

Grant proposals and other sources of funding

This artifact demonstrates a grant writing application submitted to present at the 2025 ACES Conference.

Ethical and culturally relevant strategies for conducting research

This researcher identity memo suggests ethical considerations that I make as a researcher in the context of culture and other areas.

Reflections

Reflect on the process of developing leadership level knowledge, skills, and practices in this competency. What has been especially impactful/meaningful/important to you personally and professionally?

Engaging in research, navigating the publication process, and presenting at conferences has enhanced my academic skills and helped to shape my professional identity. It has been meaningful to change my perspective and view research as a means for advocacy. I have learned the importance of becoming a researcher in the field of counseling. There is a need for evidence-based practice, but more research is needed to support these best practices. I did not enter this program to become a researcher, but now I have realized that I am becoming one.

Describe an area of strength that you have developed while in the program in this area of competency. What is one way you plan to utilize this strength in your vocation?

One area where I have developed strength is my ability to collaborate with other researchers. I have learned to co-author papers and engage in various research teams. I have learned how to navigate authorship, differing perspectives, and respect related to professional collaboration. I want to foster collaborative inquiry that contributes to scholarship and research integrity.

Describe an area of challenge/growth opportunity in this area of competency. What is your plan to develop excellence in this area?

One area of growth is finding my voice as a researcher. Imposter syndrome, at times, feels overwhelming when I compare myself with other researchers. To develop excellence in this area, I will engage in regular research practices and find other researchers with that I want to collaborate. I also plan to continue presenting at conferences and submitting for publication to establish my professional identity as a counselor. I know that my confidence will continue to grow as I continue to develop in this area.

Reflect on how faith in Christ relates to this competency.

My faith informs how I approach research and scholarship. I am pursuing spiritual and professional knowledge. I want to be a voice for the voiceless and advocate for the marginalized population. Faith leads me to want to approach research with humility, and that becoming a researcher is not about personal accolades but instead serving others in the field of counseling. Research and scholarship can, therefore, become an extension of my faith.