Using Exit Tickets To Drive Reflective And Responsive Instruction,
2026
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Using Exit Tickets To Drive Reflective And Responsive Instruction, Melissa Yarczower
UNLV Best Teaching Practices Expo
Exit tickets are an effective formative assessment tool for promoting student reflection and guiding responsive instruction. Exit tickets were used at the end of each class session to help students identify key takeaways, assess their understanding, and connect new learning to prior knowledge and professional practice. Exit ticket responses allowed for timely instructional adjustments, including reteaching key concepts, clarifying misunderstandings, and scaffolding complex content. Summarizing themes at the start of each class strengthened continuity between sessions and established a predictable reflective routine. Implementation of this strategy increased student engagement, participation, and metacognitive awareness because students were able to clearly articulate …
Reducing Challenging Behavior Through Classroom Management Techniques In The Early Childhood Classroom,
2026
Grand Valley State University
Reducing Challenging Behavior Through Classroom Management Techniques In The Early Childhood Classroom, Mayra Moreno
Masters Projects
This literature-based project examines the impact of challenging behavior on student learning and evaluates the effectiveness of preventative classroom management strategies. Challenging behaviors include aggression, disruption and withdrawal, negatively affect the learning environment by decreasing student engagement, increasing teacher stress and burnout, and contributing to a less supportive classroom climate. Grounded in Piaget’s Theory of Cognitive Development and Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development, this project emphasizes the importance of developmentally appropriate practices that support both cognitive and social-emotional growth. Included are preventative classroom management techniques aimed at reducing challenging behaviors. Key strategies include maintaining a 5:1 ratio of positive to …
Sleep And Autism Spectrum Disorder,
2026
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Sleep And Autism Spectrum Disorder, Jennie Carlin
Dissertations, Theses, and Projects
Sleep disturbances are highly prevalent among children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and may negatively affect daytime behavior, emotional regulation, learning, and overall family well-being. This quantitative research proposal examines the relationship between sleep difficulties, behavioral functioning, and family experiences among children with ASD. The study will explore how behavioral and environmental sleep interventions may influence sleep quality and nighttime behaviors, how improved sleep may contribute to changes in daytime behavior, and how parents and caregivers perceive the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing sleep-focused interventions at home. A quantitative research design will be used to collect caregiver-reported data through the …
Enduring Commitment: A Phenomenological Exploration Of Retention Among Veteran Early Childhood Educators In Rural Settings,
2026
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Enduring Commitment: A Phenomenological Exploration Of Retention Among Veteran Early Childhood Educators In Rural Settings, Erin M. Wirtz
Dissertations, Theses, and Projects
The retention of teachers has been a challenge, particularly in the field of early childhood education (Downey et al., 2024; Havlicek-Cook, 2012; Markowitz, 2024; Totenhagen et al., 2016). Research on teacher attrition is abundant, yet studies of retention are far less common, and those that exist have largely focused on K-12, novice, and urban educators. This study seeks to address this gap by exploring the experiences of veteran early childhood educators working in rural northern Minnesota. Guided by the framework of Deci and Ryan’s (2000) Self-Determination Theory, the purpose of this study was to examine factors that contribute to sustained …
Caregiving For Older Adults: How The Child And Dependent Care Credit Could Help,
2026
W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research
Caregiving For Older Adults: How The Child And Dependent Care Credit Could Help, Gabrielle Pepin, Yulya Truskinovsky
Upjohn Institute Policy and Research Briefs
No abstract provided.
Early Childhood Educators’ Experiences Teaching Literacy Acquisition Skills,
2026
Walden University
Early Childhood Educators’ Experiences Teaching Literacy Acquisition Skills, Dena Renee Crews
Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies
The problem investigated through this study was that early childhood educators struggle to help students with literacy acquisition skills in a Title 1 elementary school. The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate early childhood educators’ experiences with the challenges of teaching literacy acquisition skills and their suggestions for improving resources and training for teaching literacy acquisition skills. The study was grounded in Clay’s emergent literacy theory and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory. For this basic qualitative design, semistructured interviews with 14 participants were conducted with the following themes emerging: Early childhood educators were challenged due to (a) students’ background …
Teaching The Rainbow: An Educator's Guide To Implementing Lgbtq+ Inclusive Curriculum In The Early Childhood Classroom,
2026
Bowling Green State University
Teaching The Rainbow: An Educator's Guide To Implementing Lgbtq+ Inclusive Curriculum In The Early Childhood Classroom, Alice Prosser
Honors Projects
This resource serves as a guidebook for early childhood educators interested in implementing LGBTQ+ inclusive curriculum in their classrooms. The guidebook includes rationale, addresses common objections educators may have, and provides examples of standards aligned lesson plans by grade level, as well as additional resources and suggestions.
“It Was Hard, But It Worked:” Children’S Theories Of Learning To Read,
2026
Department of Education and Child Study, Smith College
“It Was Hard, But It Worked:” Children’S Theories Of Learning To Read, Cristina Valencia Mazzanti, Laura Tiktin-Sharick, Madeleine Zuck, Tiphareth Ananda
Occasional Paper Series
In this paper we come together as teachers, a school leader and a professor to examine children’s theories of learning to read captured in written and illustrated texts created by 143 children currently enrolled in kindergarten to sixth grade. This collection of children’s theories of reading was created in the context of a progressive elementary school located at Smith College, a women's liberal arts college in Massachusetts. Our hope in examining children’s theories is to humanize and historicize current debates about how reading is taught. We also hope to offer a counter narrative to the dichotomies currently shaping reading education, …
Shared Power, Shared Purpose: A Boundaryless Servant-Leadership Model For Early Childhood Education Programs,
2026
Morehead State University
Shared Power, Shared Purpose: A Boundaryless Servant-Leadership Model For Early Childhood Education Programs, Stephanie Akers, Beth Morton
Kentucky Teacher Education Journal: The Journal of the Teacher Education Division of the Kentucky Council for Exceptional Children
This article proposes a model for a boundaryless early childhood program grounded in servant leadership and responsive to Kentucky’s regulatory and quality context. Drawing on research about boundaryless organizations, servant leadership, equity, inclusion, and program quality, the model reimagines the early childhood program as a collaborative community rather than a strictly hierarchical, compliance-driven organization (Ashkenas et al., 2015; Friesen et al., 2024; Greenleaf, 1977; NAEYC, 2019, 2020). The early childhood program maintains clear roles (director, assistant director, education coordinator, teachers, and support staff) but loosens rigid boundaries among classrooms and stakeholder groups. State licensing and Kentucky’s quality rating and improvement …
At-Home Computational And Data Literacy For Pre-K–5 Students: A Review Of The Literature,
2026
Southern Methodist University
At-Home Computational And Data Literacy For Pre-K–5 Students: A Review Of The Literature, Marc Sager, Sarah Miller, Zarek Drozda
Journal of Educational Research and Practice
This systematic review investigates best practices for promoting data literacy development in pre-K–5 learners, with a specific focus on caregiver involvement in at-home learning environments. A comprehensive search and screening process identified 42 studies for inclusion. The studies were analyzed to determine effective strategies for fostering early data literacy. Key findings emphasize (1) early, developmentally appropriate engagement with attention to equity; (2) core learning outcomes in computational and data literacy; (3) learning approaches integrating real-world contexts and hands-on experiences; (4) balanced use of digital tools and unplugged activities; and (5) essential parental and caregiver involvement. The review highlights integrating data …
Early Childhood Pre-Service Teacher Interns’ Experiences In Building Relationships With Students’ Families,
2026
Walden University
Early Childhood Pre-Service Teacher Interns’ Experiences In Building Relationships With Students’ Families, Fungayi Madzonga
Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies
Strong relationships between educators and students’ families are essential for fostering learning environments to meet the needs of early childhood students. The problem that was addressed through this study is that many early childhood preservice teacher interns (ECPTIs) experience challenges in building relationships with students’ families during the internship phase of teacher preparation in Alberta. Framed by ecological systems and self determination theories, the purpose of this basic qualitative study was to explore ECPTIs’ experiences building relationships with students’ families and to understand the resources needed to strengthen those relationships in Alberta. Semi structured interviews were conducted with 12 ECPTIs …
Empowering Early Childhood Leaders: A Strength-Based And Ecological Approach To Leadership Development,
2026
Southeastern University - Lakeland
Empowering Early Childhood Leaders: A Strength-Based And Ecological Approach To Leadership Development, Dora Sanders
PhD in Education
Professional development models for early childhood (EC) leaders are often generic and deficit-focused, overlooking their diverse strengths, contexts, and experiences. This study addressed that gap by exploring how EC leaders identify and leverage their strengths to enhance leadership effectiveness and how professional development can be differentiated to meet their unique needs. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, eight EC leaders representing varied educational backgrounds and community contexts were engaged. Semi-structured interviews captured their lived experiences, which were analyzed thematically through the lens of the strengths-ecological leadership framework designed by the researcher that integrated individualized professional development, strengths-based leadership, and ecological systems. …
Field Experience Practicum In Early Childhood Education,
2026
Woodland Community College
Field Experience Practicum In Early Childhood Education, Laurie A. Daly
OER Textbooks
This OER is being used at UMass Boston in the Curriculum and Instruction Department. It was uploaded to ScholarWorks @ UMass Boston to help students gain access to the materials. To request a takedown of this material, please email [email protected].
Nh Ece Research Consortium Member Information,
2026
University of New Hampshire, Durham
Nh Ece Research Consortium Member Information, Evan England, Jess Carson
New Hampshire Early Care and Education Research Consortium
NH ECE Research Consortium membership is open to individuals and organizations with relevant expertise that aligns with the purpose of the Consortium, including the advancement of knowledge to support early care and education in NH. This document describes the benefits of membership, what it means to be a member, and the role of the Carsey School.
Teacher Beliefs And Their Influence On Instructional Strategies And Student Outcomes,
2026
Northwestern College - Orange City
Teacher Beliefs And Their Influence On Instructional Strategies And Student Outcomes, Brianna Dompke
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Teacher beliefs are recognized as a foundation element in classroom decision-making, shaping how educators interpret curriculum, respond to student needs, and select instructional strategies. However, a significant challenge exists when teacher’s personal beliefs misalign with evidence-based practices, which can limit student success and engagements and instructional effectiveness. This inquiry-based research projects examines the relationship between teacher’s beliefs, instructional strategies, and student outcomes within the PK-12 classroom. Through a synthesis of peer-reviewed scholarly journal published within the last ten years, this review identifies patterns in belief formation, and the role beliefs play in teacher implementation and teaching in the classroom. The …
Teacher Engagement In Outdoor Play: Impacts On Children’S Behavioral Regulation,
2026
Northwestern College - Orange City
Teacher Engagement In Outdoor Play: Impacts On Children’S Behavioral Regulation, Mariah Duszynski
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this inquiry-based research was to better understand how teacher engagement during outdoor play shapes children's behavioral regulation and overall playground experience. The problem was that teachers have their own views and beliefs about how they should interact with children on the playground, which may differ from those of their colleagues, leading to different behavioral outcomes in children. This study examined how teacher engagement during outdoor play influences children's behavior and how children perceive and experience outdoor play when teachers are more actively engaged. One early childhood center in rural Iowa was observed throughout this study, with four …
The Effect Of Open-Ended Questioning On Preschool Literacy And Language Development,
2026
Northwestern College, Iowa
The Effect Of Open-Ended Questioning On Preschool Literacy And Language Development, Roxy Moorman
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This inquiry-based study examines the impact of intentional open-ended questioning on preschool children’s language development and emergent literacy skills during shared reading. Grounded in research highlighting the importance of teacher–child interactions, this study addresses the problem that many preschool classrooms rely heavily on closed-ended questions that limit opportunities for extended dialogue and expressive language growth. The purpose of this study is to determine whether increasing the frequency and quality of open-ended questioning leads to improvements in children’s vocabulary, comprehension, conversational turn-taking, and overall participation in classroom discourse. Conducted in a preschool classroom with nine students over a six-week period, the …
Strategies And Techniques In Early Childhood Education,
2026
Northwestern College - Orange City
Strategies And Techniques In Early Childhood Education, Abigail Strutzenberg
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
As early childhood education shifts toward high-stakes accountability, the traditional "bridge year" of age four is increasingly dominated by "drill-and-kill" academic instruction. This project investigates the growing tension between rigorous academic standards and developmentally appropriate practices. The study explores how the implementation of intentional, play-based strategies—specifically guided play and multisensory scaffolding—can meet mandatory benchmarks for phonemic awareness and self-regulation without compromising a child’s social-emotional well-being. Ultimately, the research seeks to identify how educators can reclaim their pedagogical autonomy by balancing state mandates with the intrinsic needs of the developing child. The central thesis argues that when academic content is embedded …
Effectiveness Of Project-Based Learning In Early Childhood Education,
2026
Northwestern College - Orange City
Effectiveness Of Project-Based Learning In Early Childhood Education, Jasmin Voravongsa
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The increasing complexity of the modern world necessitates innovative educational methodologies that effectively prepare young learners for future challenges. Traditional instruction often prioritizes rote memorization, resulting in disengagement and insufficient development of critical social-emotional and cognitive skills, particularly within early childhood education. This inquiry-based research examines the effectiveness of project-based learning (PBL) as an instructional strategy to enhance student engagement, collaboration, social-emotional development, and deep learning, with a focus on STEM education in early childhood settings. By engaging children in real-world, hands-on projects, PBL fosters intrinsic motivation, collaborative skills, emotional intelligence, and profound conceptual understanding. Through a comprehensive literature review …
Perspectives Of Classroom Teachers On The Foundational Reading Needs Of Fourth Through Sixth Grade Students,
2026
Jacksonville State University
Perspectives Of Classroom Teachers On The Foundational Reading Needs Of Fourth Through Sixth Grade Students, Deliska Burton-Cooley
Dissertations
Reading proficiency is a critical foundation for academic success; however, many students enter the upper elementary grades without the foundational literacy skills necessary to access grade level content. Teachers in grades four through six are increasingly responsible for addressing persistent reading gaps while simultaneously meeting instructional expectations aligned with grade-level standards. The problem addressed in this qualitative descriptive study was the limited research examining how upper elementary teachers identify and respond to foundational reading needs when such gaps persist beyond the primary grades. The purpose of this study was to examine upper-elementary teachers’ perspectives on identifying and addressing foundational reading …
