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Articles 1 - 24 of 24
Full-Text Articles in Education
The Benefit Of Inclusion In Early Childhood Classrooms, Taylor Webb
The Benefit Of Inclusion In Early Childhood Classrooms, Taylor Webb
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this literature review is to demonstrate the benefits of inclusion in preschool classrooms and encourage educators to embrace this practice. According to the experts, inclusion provides social and academic benefits along with learning what preservice teachers know about inclusion. The reviewed research suggests when inclusion is incorporated in preschool classroom settings, it benefits all children. The conclusion of this review includes recommendations of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood settings and how it can be used to make inclusive preschool classrooms a place for all students to learn and grow.
Technology To Increase Peer Interactions In Preschool, Angela Mclean
Technology To Increase Peer Interactions In Preschool, Angela Mclean
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Adding technology to the preschool classroom without interfering with social interactions is a dilemma for educators. Peer interactions are an important developmental goal in preschool age students. Increased pressure to include technology in education at earlier ages is often viewed as a hindrance to social interactions in play-based curriculum, with many educators feeling unprepared in the methods to incorporate technology. The goal of this literature review is to analyze current research to discover methods that can increase social interactions among peers with the addition of technology tools in the preschool classroom. This review looked at forty-seven studies of social interactions …
Academic Advantages Of Increased Classroom Movement In Kindergarten, Elizabeth Hill
Academic Advantages Of Increased Classroom Movement In Kindergarten, Elizabeth Hill
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Modern kindergarten classrooms are academically rigorous learning environments with high expectations placed on young learners. Oftentimes, these students still receive an education based on traditional instructional strategies that no longer benefit and challenge young learners appropriately. This literature review examines the academic benefits of intentional classroom movement, kinesthetic learning, brain breaks and the impact they have on learning in the kindergarten setting. This literature review presents peer reviewed research studies conducted within the last ten years that investigate the most advantageous methods of movement incorporation in the classroom. The findings of this literature review conclude that, by increasing classroom movement, …
Implementing Effective Inclusion In Prekindergarten, Jennifer L. Wenke
Implementing Effective Inclusion In Prekindergarten, Jennifer L. Wenke
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review will act as a guide for implementing quality inclusion effectively in preschool classrooms. The inclusion of children with special needs in education is of concern to educators worldwide. "Inclusive education involves the transformation of the education system-legislation and policy, systems for financing, administration, design, delivery, and monitoring of the education and the way schools are organized" (Zabeli & Gjelaj, 2020, p. 3). This literature review examines the variables predicting overall quality, curriculum, training, tools for communication and engagement, teacher views, and peer interaction pertaining to inclusion in prekindergarten classrooms. Two themes were constant in the research: training …
Examining Quality Inclusive Practices In Early Childhood Education, Laura Wagner
Examining Quality Inclusive Practices In Early Childhood Education, Laura Wagner
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review synthesizes research on practices for high quality early childhood inclusion. The inclusive practices that are examined are categorized under participation, access, and supports. This review of literature examines the measurement tools used to assess the quality of inclusive practices used in early childhood settings. Research published in the last ten years shows that there are some promising measures that can be used going forward to assess the quality of inclusive practices in early childhood.
Using The Ipad Application Ixl And Its Effects On Fast Assessment Scores, Carly Lenhoff
Using The Ipad Application Ixl And Its Effects On Fast Assessment Scores, Carly Lenhoff
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this action research study was to determine the effectiveness of using the iPad application IXL during math rotations in the transitional kindergarten classroom and the outcomes of the FAST assessment composite scores. The researcher conducted the study over eight weeks in a transitional kindergarten in Northwest Iowa. Nine students participated eight-ten minutes two-three times a week. The researcher collected quantitative data through the IXL program along with FAST test scores. Results suggest that the use of IXL program advances transitional kindergarten FAST composite scores.
Behavior As A Part Of Child Development: Changing The Response To Challenging Behavior In Young Children, Kelly Femi-Grand
Behavior As A Part Of Child Development: Changing The Response To Challenging Behavior In Young Children, Kelly Femi-Grand
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Challenging behavior among young children has gained more and more attention as early childhood programs look to address the issue of the high incidence rate of suspensions and expulsions among the youngest learners. In an effort to decrease the number of suspensions and expulsions in early childhood settings, there has been a shift from reacting to the challenging behaviors being exhibited to teaching children social-emotional skills in order to appropriately react to new or overwhelming experiences. This literature review focuses on research that examines how to best support young children as they develop social-emotional skills and how to best support …
Technology Use In Early Childhood, Sandra Anderson
Technology Use In Early Childhood, Sandra Anderson
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review examines the influence of technology on early childhood development. It uses scholarly journals and articles to show the benefits and risks of technology use and how it can be used to compliment growth, development, and learning of young children. It also examines how technology can impact the early childhood developmental domains of: (a) social emotional, (b) cognitive, (c) physical motor, (d) language and literacy, and (e) mathematics. The influence of technology use on teaching and the family are also addressed. Furthermore, this literature review includes implications for the future, continuing research, and recommendations from the American Academy …
Comparison Of Play-Based Learning Versus Worksheets In English Language Arts Growth, Erin Wiskus
Comparison Of Play-Based Learning Versus Worksheets In English Language Arts Growth, Erin Wiskus
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this action research is to compare the data of kindergarten student’s growth in ELA (English Language Arts) through the use of play-based learning strategies against students who utilize worksheets as part of their instruction in order to determine if one instructional method is more effective than the other in demonstrating academic growth in English Language Arts. One group of students participated in play-based learning strategies while the other group utilized worksheets as an extension of learning. Both groups were given weekly pretests and posttests in the areas of: letter identification, CVC (consonant, vowel, consonant) words, digraphs, and …
How Adding Social Emotional Learning Impacts Preschool Student's Ability To Manage Their Behavior, Pamela Niemeyer
How Adding Social Emotional Learning Impacts Preschool Student's Ability To Manage Their Behavior, Pamela Niemeyer
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This action research was inspired by the researcher's own classroom observations of students' behaviors, interactions, and emotional reactions throughout the day in preschool. Having students who have behaviors that may get out of control, the researcher wondered if a whole class social emotional instruction would provide them with strategies make a difference in all student's ability to manage their emotions. The participants in this study included 20 preschool students, 3- to 5-year-old. This study took place over a 4-week period where social emotional lessons were presented as whole groups and small groups. During this time, the teacher was intentional in …
Impact Of Technology Use On Early Childhood, Paige Davidson
Impact Of Technology Use On Early Childhood, Paige Davidson
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Technology is something that has evolved immensely over the last 20 years and only continues to grow and change. Technology has affected early childhood education, in the home and classroom. This literature review explores the impact of technology use on young children, as well as how educators can support students learning using technology. The literature review will analyze how technology can positively affect student learning through increased collaboration, enhanced engagement, strengthened motivation and creativity. In addition, the literature review will explain how technology can improve academic skills, such as reading and math. Educators are the key facilitators for improving student …
Brain Breaks Improve Student Behavior And Focus, Meghan M. Barker
Brain Breaks Improve Student Behavior And Focus, Meghan M. Barker
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this action research project was to determine the impact of brain breaks, or physical activity breaks, when implemented as a transition to learning centers in the preschool classroom. Learning centers consist of small group time, one-on-one time with the teacher, and whole group time where important preschool state standards are taught. The study was conducted over five weeks in two preschool classrooms. One classroom was designated as the control group, and the other classroom as the treatment group. Data was collected to determine if brain breaks had an impact on student focus and behavior. After five weeks …
The Value Of Play-Based Learning In Early Childhood Classrooms, Brandice Tegrootenhuis
The Value Of Play-Based Learning In Early Childhood Classrooms, Brandice Tegrootenhuis
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this literature review is to demonstrate the value of play-based learning in early childhood classrooms and encourage educators and policy-makers to focus more on this developmentally appropriate practice of learning through play in early childhood classrooms. The findings of this literature review are that play is an essential component in all areas of child development. The reviewed research suggests play and academic and social development are closely linked and indicate success in the areas of 21st century skills, literacy and language, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education. The conclusion of this review includes recommendations for …
Teaching Early Literacy Skills In Preschool And Future Kindergarten Success, Amanda Wehrhan
Teaching Early Literacy Skills In Preschool And Future Kindergarten Success, Amanda Wehrhan
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review examines the importance and the effect of literacy on Kindergarten readiness and future school success for early childhood education, specifically on preschool students. Early Childhood Educators are feeling the pressure now more than ever to have their young students prepared to enter Kindergarten. In recent years there has been a shift away from a play-based classroom to more of a focus on academics. In this literature review, various research studies are examined to determine whether or not the real focus of the preschool curriculum should be play or literacy or both.
The Impact Of Utilizing Learning Centers To Promote Stem Development In The Early Childhood Classroom, Crystal M. Riniker
The Impact Of Utilizing Learning Centers To Promote Stem Development In The Early Childhood Classroom, Crystal M. Riniker
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review explores the research on incorporating STEM in the preschool classroom, in particular, learning centers. Research from the past decade shows developing the four areas of science, technology, mathematics, and engineering (STEM) in the early years is beneficial for students’ science abilities in the later grades. Studies from this review shine a light on teacher attitudes about science, the classroom environment, and approaches to learning and how they influence students’ learning of STEM in preschool.
The Use Of Social Stories To Teach Appropriate Social Skills To Create A Peaceful Classroom Environment, Kallie Turner
The Use Of Social Stories To Teach Appropriate Social Skills To Create A Peaceful Classroom Environment, Kallie Turner
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This action research was motivated by the researcher's own classroom observations of student behavior and social interactions as well as an interest in how social stories have been proven to help individual students in social situations. Having had individual students who benefitted from social stories, the researcher's interest grew; the researcher wondered if this same process could be used with an entire class. The researcher is a kindergarten teacher in her fifth year of teaching and had her own students participate in the implementation of reviewing social stories to practice social skills to improve the overall quality of the classroom …
The Importance Of Using Manipulatives In Math Class, Jennifer Lange
The Importance Of Using Manipulatives In Math Class, Jennifer Lange
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review synthesizes research on how the use of manipulatives in math class benefit the learner. The problem is that the students are not always given the opportunity to explore and learn through the use of math manipulatives in order to gain a strong foundation and understanding of mathematical concepts. The purpose of this literature review is to explore the benefits of using manipulatives in the classroom and the impact it has on student achievement levels. The literature review is made up of research studies published within the last 10 years and explores the different types of manipulatives, levels …
Tcit’S Impact On Various Challenging Behaviors, Emily Krakau
Tcit’S Impact On Various Challenging Behaviors, Emily Krakau
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Preventing and managing challenging behaviors is a responsibility that many educators encounter and is an aspect of the teaching profession that can cause high stress. For a child who exhibits challenging behaviors, there are lasting negative effects that can occur. The purpose of this action research project is to examine the effectiveness of Teacher-Child Interaction Training (TCIT) on reducing the frequency of different types of challenging behaviors in an early childhood setting. With a sample of three preschool aged students, who were identified as having elevated levels of challenging behavior, the teacher researcher observed the frequency for delay/avoidance, aggression, disruptive …
Evidence-Based Best Practices For Kindergarten Reading, Rachel Dolehanty
Evidence-Based Best Practices For Kindergarten Reading, Rachel Dolehanty
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review aims to highlight evidence-based best practices for kindergarten reading instruction. Popular reading curriculums and instructional cueing strategies are discussed in relation to their effectiveness for kindergarten reading success. Meaning-emphasis versus code- emphasis reading curriculum philosophies are explored, and specific curriculums that fall into these categories are discussed. Metacognition strategies and their relation to successful reading instruction are underscored. Interventions are examined in the areas of kindergarten phonological awareness, phonics, comprehension, and writing. Successful interventions in each of these areas of literacy instruction are highlighted through current research.
Maintaining A Relational Classroom While Implementing Ts Gold, Leslie K. Gustafson
Maintaining A Relational Classroom While Implementing Ts Gold, Leslie K. Gustafson
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Teaching Strategies GOLD is an authentic assessment tool. It is used in many preschool classrooms to observe student development in their daily routine. Teaching Strategies GOLD is an effective means of assessing student development. One of the challenges when implementing Teaching Strategies GOLD is its comprehensiveness. The extensiveness of the assessment has been found to be very time consuming for educators to implement. This has raised the question, “How does an educator maintain a relational classroom while implementing Teaching Strategies GOLD?” The purpose of this paper to research the value of preschool and the use of authentic assessment. It will …
The Importance Of Physical Activity In Early Childhood Development, Kathleen Stuart
The Importance Of Physical Activity In Early Childhood Development, Kathleen Stuart
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Programming in early childhood has become increasingly academic, with less consideration for whole-child development. This new emphasis has influenced not only pre-k programs, but also programs serving toddlers and infants. As a result of this focus on academic skills, children from birth to five years old are spending more time in sedentary, academically focused activities and less time in meaningful play and physical activity. Children are no longer afforded the time and opportunity to participate in the robust play activities that are one of the essential elements in whole-child development. This literature review focuses on research that advocates for physical …
Explicit Literacy Instruction Focused On Letter Sounds Vs. Letter Names And Student Educational Growth, Maria O'Dell
Explicit Literacy Instruction Focused On Letter Sounds Vs. Letter Names And Student Educational Growth, Maria O'Dell
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this action research was to investigate the effects of explicit literacy instruction focused on letter sounds and letter names to determine student academic growth. This study was conducted in the researcher’s early childhood class with a group of 20 preschool aged students. Research was conducted over the course of five weeks with students meeting with the researcher a minimum of two times each week. Data was collected using a literacy assessment with sections on letter sounds, uppercase letter names, and lowercase letter names. The researcher concluded that student growth was observed in the control and treatment groups, …
Outdoor Classroom/Natural Playground Space School Improvement Project, Holly Carlson
Outdoor Classroom/Natural Playground Space School Improvement Project, Holly Carlson
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Allowing students to have increased outside playtime in nature positively impacts the students physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development. This school improvement project establishes a plan for creating an additional outside play space and outdoor classroom to increase play time while learning in nature.
Increasing Family Engagement In A Preschool Program, Meghan Reiman
Increasing Family Engagement In A Preschool Program, Meghan Reiman
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This school improvement plan was developed to increase family engagement within a preschool program in a public school district. Research has shown that family engagement can positively impact children's development. Parents and teachers share responsibility in creating a strong, trusting partnership with the common goal of supporting the child's growth and development. Existing research on family engagement contributed to the improvement plan by highlighting the use of technology as a means of engaging families. The three main components of this improvement plan include creating two-way communication with families, involving families in the process of setting goals for their child, and …