First things first, IRB approved my research for exemption! However, the IRB site said that requests should be in rather early, so I had anticipated a somewhat lengthy IRB process. For that reason, I plan(ned) to begin collecting data on Apr. 6. So, I must wait several days before seeking data.

Looking at the schedule, I’ve begun to draft my report. At the time of this post (around 2pm on Wednesday, Apr. 1), I need to add sources to my literature review. I plan/hope to use all four annotated bibliographies that I turned in on Sunday in my research report, as all directly tie into my research. I also need to make sure that my literature review functions like one – I can summarize and compose annotated bibliographies, but throwing everything into a cohesive literature review has been a problem when it comes to this course – and my thesis, too.

After checking out the readings for last week tonight, I saw on the schedule where we’re supposed to connect theory to our research. I wasn’t sure that my particular project incorporated theory into its framework – and I’m still a bit wary that it is. However, I suppose that my research could (very loosely) be considered feminist. Feminist research tends to favor subjectivity and the gathering of robust perspectives from those who participate in the research. The final question on my survey prompts participants to discuss several Facebook posts and why they incorporated smileys into them. This gives participants the opportunity to shape their own narratives.