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?
Throughout this path, I was exposed to different research methodologies on how a researcher systematically designs a study to ensure valid and reliable results that address the research aims and objectives. This was a core aspect of maintaining and advancement of my knowledge and skills in the field. I enjoyed reading literature, attending professional conferences, maintaining professional and clinical skills, all while acquiring new skills grounded in (CACREP) core competencies. The role of research and scholarship allowed for the practical application of professional activities during my practicums and internships. During this time, I was able to teach, conduct research, and provide and obtain the support of the research. Additionally, my time spent attending the conference and participating in workshops is attributed to support for research.

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?
My strength in this competency is anchored in research. I have shown the most improvement here, from the stylistic finesse of my writing, dense delivery of information, to the use of the most current APA Style Manual. Educational data gathered from this experience will significantly influence my endeavors and professional calling. This research-driven pedagogy taught me how to conduct scientific and clinical research using a variety of methodologies. I developed a curiosity and the love of asking and answering questions through archival statistics and current empirical research. Across passionate teaching instruction, I acquired knowledge about the uses of objective methods that involve reliable and valid observations and measurements; and encountered studies that meet rigorous standards of peer review gates. I was involved with studies as a participant, observer, and researcher. I was guided by experts and I hope my research would be replicated and generalized in future research that could have implications for policy, training, and practice.

Describe an area of challenge/growth opportunity in this area of competency. What is your plan to develop excellence in this area?
I struggled to use my voice when writing academically. I only wanted to present concepts, facts, and conclusions, without taking away from the author’s work. It is here where I lost my own stance. I over-quoted to not plagiarize, lacked distinctiveness, and an appropriate display of intellectual rigor. It was through the practice-feedback-practice method I receive mentorship and guidance on how to use my academic voice consistently. I am grateful to acquire this critical skill and plan on using the tools accessible to continue growing in this area. I will do this by engaging in conversations with academic writers to learn from their insight, participate in writer’s development groups, reading a wide array of literature, and attending conferences to help widen and develop the range of my voice.

Reflect on how faith in Christ relates to this competency.
My faith in God promotes fairness. I have grown as a researcher to instinctively question anything that seems inaccurate, and usually, that suspicion motivates the search for answers needed to establish the truth, both in clinical research and in doctrine. When sifting through the Scriptures and there is seemingly no manifestation of the spiritual gift, I am humbled, I do not honor experience over the authority of Scripture. Likewise, my diligent search does not have to produce fruit as this may mean that I am at the edge of research. This sparks numerous questions and interest for more research.