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As a student, how do I get involved in research?

Look to your university for some potential opportunities.  If your university is a research institute, it will likely have an undergraduate research page.  Search for this page and look into some opportunities.  In addition, look to the faculty of your department and see what research opportunities they have available.  A simple email of, “Hello, my name is X, and I am a student interested in research.  I saw your CV and see that you do research on Y.  This really interests me, and I was wondering if you had any opportunities for students and research.”

In addition, consider joining a student journal club. These groups can be a helpful way of learning how to digest scientific literature and network with peers who are also interested in research. Lastly, one of the best ways to learn about research is to engage as a participant. Look at ACLP Connect for opportunities to contribute to a colleague’s research study. 

What if my university does not have a child life faculty member doing research?

Look to other faculty members who do research related to children, healthcare, or families.  Interdisciplinary collaboration shows that you can work with other disciplines. Consider asking nursing, education, or counseling faculty to support your work. 

Are there any courses I should take if I am interested in research?

The good news is that part of the requirements for certification eligibility is the completion of one course on research.  However, if you have the opportunity and you are interested in research, it would be a good idea to take research methods and statistics. 

What if my hospital does not let me submit an IRB because I am not faculty?

Consider partnering with a faculty member in psychology or nursing research. If that is not an option, look outside of the IRB box for potential ways to contribute to research. Projects with secondary data that do not require IRB approval make significant contributions to scientific progress. Systematic literature reviews, meta-analyses, commentaries, theoretical analyses, and case studies are great ways to contribute that do not require IRB approval. 

I know I want to do research but I don’t know where to start. Any advice?

Consider the parts of your child life journey that could be improved upon. What has been difficult or stressful? Could you investigate this concern in your current position? Or could you appraise and summarize research already conducted on this topic? When it connects to your story, motivation will come easily. 

I am providing telehealth services due to Covid-19. Can I still do research online?

Yes! Talk to your institution about making adjustments to your protocol so that it allows for online data collection. Often, institutions will have a platform in place for recruiting, collecting data, analyzing outcomes, and preparing for publication all online.