Web Article

Current Research in Early Childhood

Learning Resources

Required Resources

  • Web Article: Using Research on Early Childhood Development and Education
    http://www.naeyc.org/research/using

Optional Resources

  • Web Article: High/Scope Perry Preschool Study Press Release
    http://www.highscope.org/Content.asp?ContentId=282
  • Report: The High/Scope Perry Preschool Study Through Age 40: Summary, Conclusions, and Frequently Asked Questions
    http://www.highscope.org/file/Research/PerryProject/3_specialsummary col 06 07.pdf

“Research gives early childhood practitioners and policymakers essential knowledge to use in making decisions on behalf of young children and families. The goal is to integrate the best available research evidence with the wisdom and values of professionals and families” (Buysse & Wesley, 2006).

You have been reading about the vital role of research to the early childhood field as well as the characteristics of high-quality research. To prepare for this Discussion, review the reading for this module, “Using Research on Early Childhood Development and Education” (http://www.naeyc.org/resources/research/), as follows:

 

  • Review the section “What Is ‘Good’ Research?”
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  • Scroll down to the section “Where Can I Find Research on Early Childhood Development and Education?”
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  • Click on and explore the sections: “NAEYC Resources” and “Other Web Resources to consider.”
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Take time to explore various sites and peruse current articles and reports that pique your interest. Choose one resource that you believe provides information critical to the field. Read the article/report carefully and prepare to share your insights with your colleagues.

 

By Day 7 of Week 4:

 

Post the following:

 

  • Two insights you learned about research
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  • Three major points from the article or report that you read and why you believe this information is essential for early childhood professionals to know (Make sure to cite your source.)
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By Day 7 of Week 6:

 

Read a selection of your colleagues’ postings.

 

Respond to at least two of your colleagues’ postings in any of the following ways:

 

  • Build on something your colleague said.
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  • Explain why and how you see things differently.
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  • Ask a probing or clarifying question.
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  • Share an insight from having read your colleague’s posting.
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  • Offer and support an opinion.
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  • Validate an idea with your own experience.
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  • Expand on your colleague’s posting.
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  • Ask for evidence that supports the posting.
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Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Consider what you have learned and/or any insights you have gained as a result of the comments your colleagues made.