Early Childhood Education Commons^™

Value Of Self-Talk In An Early Childhood Setting, Althea Murphy

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper is to examine the self talk of the child and how it relates to the child's cognitive development. The views of Piaget and Vygotsky regarding self talk are compared. Development and varieties of self talk are examined. Factors that encourage and discourage self talk are discussed. The final chapter summarizes this study, draws conclusions from the literature, and this paper suggests guidelines for developing an effective program of self talk in the early childhood setting.

Reading In The Kindergarten, Christine E. Resch

Graduate Research Papers

This study examines the effectiveness of implementing a formal reading program in the Kindergarten. Past and present reading instruction methods were reviewed. Benefits, as well as problems, associated with such implementation and instruction were discussed and conclusions were drawn from the literature. Guidelines and recommendations for implementing various approaches to the teaching of reading in the Kindergarten were outlined.

Perspectives On Early Literacy : The Monroe School, Mona S. Rosdail

Graduate Research Papers

This article is based on two days of observations and interviews in an all- kindergarten school in a small midwest city. The purpose of my research was to look at how the steps taken by this school correlate with the steps of Erickson's Dance in addressing the needs and development of the school when becoming an all-kindergarten literacy center. I feel that the information in this article would benefit educators who would like to implement changes in their schools.

Two Current Approaches To Science In Early Education : The Physical-Knowledge Approach By Kamii And Devries And The Science Education Approach By Diane Dodge, Seon Chun

Graduate Research Papers

The primary focus of this paper is to review the characteristics of two science approaches to teaching science to children: the physical-knowledge approach by Kamii and De Vries, and the science education approach by Diane Dodge. Similarities and differences between the two approaches are analyzed. The conclusion of this study found that both approaches emphasize children's active role in learning. However, Kamii and DeVries's physical-knowledge approach emphasizes children's logical reasoning development, while Dodge's science education approach places greater emphasis on content and scientific knowledge.

Concerns Based Adoption Of Instructional Technologies For Learning For Russian Pre-Service Early Childhood Education Students : A Pilot Study, Garth D. Cornish

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in concerns toward the use of instructional media for pre-service Russian elementary education teachers. Participants were a combination of 16 second- and third-year students in the early childhood department of Herzen Pedagogical University located in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The Stages of Concern Questionnaire (SoCQ) was used to gather data for the study. A pre-test was administered before a specially designed series of seminars and workshops on instructional technologies for learning were conducted. Post-test results were gathered at the conclusion of the seminars and workshops. Findings indicated that awareness levels of …

Winter : A Literature-Based Unit For Kindergarten, Amy L. Murray

Graduate Research Papers

A literature-based program in a classroom can provide many opportunities for children to engage in the language 'process. As a result, children's thinking-language abilities are extended and their enthusiasm for involvement in classroom learning experiences is enhanced. Literature experiences representative of the different genres add dimensions to the study of themes and topics.

A literature base and related expressive activity for the topic of winter in kindergarten is presented in this article. The subtopics of the unit include seasonal changes, weather, outdoor activities, clothing and changes in animal behavior. Teacher-directed and student-initiated activities through learning centers are presented.

Predictable Text With Primary Age Children In A Title One Reading Program, Joanne H. Dearment

Graduate Research Papers

Readers create meaning in print through the process of prediction. Prediction and comprehension are intricately tied together. Reading predictable books helps young readers comprehend text because their expectations are repeatedly confirmed. Predictable text brings children naturally into the reading process and allows them to process print much as mature readers.

When predictable text is implemented into a Title One reading program, students can more successfully interact with text. This sense of achievement motivates them to become actively engaged in reading experiences. As a result, students became better readers because they are reading more. Also, they became improved writers because the …

A Model Developmental Child-Sensitive Curriculum For Japanese Preschool Aged Children, Patricia J. Gee

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to design and develop a model preschool/kindergarten curriculum program that merges the best practices of representative American and Japanese programs. To accomplish this purpose, a review of current literature related to early child development was conducted, as well as a review of research supporting developmentally appropriate, early childhood curriculum programs. Additionally, information and materials from selected model American early childhood centers was contrasted with a representative preschool program sample from Japan.

Multiple Intelligence Motivational Activities Using Literature For Kindergarten And First Grade Students, Heidi Jo Ann Otis

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to identify a set of multiple intelligence activities that foster motivation for reading. These activities were to accompany specific pieces of children's literature. Children who are motivated and spend more time reading become better readers (Gambrell, 1996). The central element for this project was to develop activities for children's literature using Gardner's multiple intelligence theory. Gardner lists those seven intelligences as: Linguistic, logical/mathematical, spatial, music, kinesthetic/body, interpersonal and intrapersonal (Gardner, 1983). By giving young children a variety of intellectual modalities associated with children's literature it was hoped that all students would develop an early …

Integrating Children's Literature And Mathematics In The Early Childhood Classroom, Jamie M. Christensen

Graduate Research Papers

"Historically there have been three reasons for groups to formally adopt a set of standards: (1) to ensure quality, (2) to indicate goals, and (3) to promote change. For NCTM, all three reasons are of equal importance" (The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, 1989, p. 2).

Now, more than any other time in history, mathematical reform is essential in our school systems. The traditional mathematics curriculum was designed to prepare shopkeepers, farmers, and factory workers for occupations in the early 1900s. Some of those skills are still useful in today's society. However, as the new millennium approaches, our future …

Coordinating General Classroom Reading Instruction With Reading Recovery Instruction, Jane E. Bentley-Gadow

Graduate Research Papers

"Our Nation is at risk. Our once unchallenged preeminence in commerce, industry, science, and technological innovation is being overtaken by competitors throughout the world" (The National Commission on Excellence in Education, 1983, p. 5). 3 These were the opening words published in a 1983 letter to the people of the United States entitled, A Nation at Risk: The Imperative for Educational Reform. In 1981, the National Commission on Excellence in Education was created under the direction of the Secretary of Education, T. H. Bell. Its purpose was to investigate issues in America's education, define problems and identify solutions (The National …

A Kindergarten Teacher's Growth : Creating An Authentic Writing Program, Deborah Reicks

Graduate Research Papers

In examining several elements of the kindergarten writing program I chose to focus on the importance of the connection between reading and writing and the role I, as a teacher, can play in encouraging children to grow and develop as young writers. By improving the process of discussing and recording a child's writing with each child we were able to focus on how reading and writing are connected and use the child's strengths and interests to foster growth.

Computers And Young Children, Suzanne M. Parsons

Graduate Research Papers

This study addresses the issue of using computers in early childhood classrooms. Benefits, as well as problems, associated with using computers with young children were discussed. Guidelines for choosing developmentally appropriate software were outlined and conclusions were drawn from literature. Recommendations were made for future computer studies.

Class Size In The Primary School Years (Kindergarten - Grade Three), Tracy L. Goebel-Kelley

Graduate Research Papers

Studies of the effects of class size on children's learning have been conducted throughout the twentieth century involving nearly a million students. This article summarizes the professional literature on the effects of class size on primary grade children's learning and how it corresponds to the NAEYC's developmentally appropriate guidelines. Then, class size reduction policies such as hiring an additional teacher, implementing tutoring programs, or grouping students differently throughout the day to reduce class size during reading and math classes are presented. This article was written to help those who are involved in early childhood programs understand the many benefits that …

A Profile Of The Nigerian Educational System And Policy Options For Improved Educational Development For Rapid Economic Growth And Development, M O. Ojo, O. Adesanya, A. Bamidele

CBN Occasional Papers

Attempts is made in this paper to situate Nigeria's educational system within the context of her overall economic development in view of the universal acceptance of the ultimate importance of human resources in determining the level and manner of economic progress. The various ways in which education contributes to the process of economic development are explored. A statistical review and appraisal of the Nigerian Educational system show that given its current level, the system is under-developed as reflected by an overall adult literacy ratio of 49.5% and primary school enrollment level of 63.5% of the primary school-age cohort as at …

Classical Montessori: A Study Of The Classical Rhetorical Canons In Early Montessori Writing Instruction, Deborah E. O'Neil

English Theses & Dissertations

This thesis begins by proposing that all five classical canons are an ideal theory for guiding any writing pedagogy. The majority of the thesis, then, details how Montessori writing instruction synergistically exploits these canons to create a powerful pedagogy. Devised by Maria Montessori in the late 1800s, her instruction displays standard and nonstandard applications of invention, arrangement, style, memory, and delivery. Because Montessori writing instruction begins in preschool, this thesis concludes with an exploration of the potential benefits of introducing a classical curriculum before college.

Basic Needs: A First Grade Curriculum Study, John Heffernan

Graduate Student Independent Studies

The following first grade curriculum study is an investigation of food, shelter and services in the neighborhood surrounding the school. The activities incorporate hands-on research, discussion, and expressive materials to offer opportunities for children to discover the interdependence and relationships that exist in their immediate environment. The three units of food, shelter and community services have specific goals, and they are:

Food -Investigate how markets, stores and restaurants provide food for the neighborhood, where the food comes from and how it gets to Park Slope.

Shelter - Investigate how and where people house themselves in the neighborhood and what are …

An Inservice Training Manual Of Selected Writing Techniques To Improve Reading Achievement In Primary Grades, Roni L. Rumsey

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to design and develop a manual of writing techniques that could be used in kindergarten and first grade classrooms, in order to increase reading achievement. To accomplish this, current research and literature on emergent literacy, reading, writing, and communication was reviewed. Additionally, information and selected materials from selected schools and school districts related to the utilization of writing techniques to improve reading skills was obtained and analyzed.

Integrating The Research Process In The Early Primary Curriculum, Laurie Jean Hazel

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this project was to design a developmentally appropriate curriculum that provides primary teachers with the rationale, planning, procedures, and guidance needed to incorporate research projects into their primary grade curriculum. This program is not limited to talented and gifted students; it is recommended for all students.

The literature review consists of profiling the work of teachers and authors in the field of education who incorporate research techniques into their teaching practice. The literature builds a foundation for the importance and benefits of research skills and projects for students of all ages and ability levels.

When primary students …

The Home-School Partnership, Sue W. Mcdonald

Graduate Research Papers

This school-home literacy project reaffirms the notion that the school and home working together greatly benefits children. The parents in the project believed the partnership encouraged them to make time each day to be involved in their child's literacy experiences. From this consistent scheduling of experiences, the parents were able to observe the benefits of the partnership as their children grew in reading and writing abilities. Parents also commented on the difficulty of locating books that were appropriate for their children's reading level. A bibliography of predictable stories should be provided to the parents.

Full-Day Kindergarten : Issues And Planning For Implementation, Nancy Jo Bolick

Graduate Research Papers

Many school districts have begun implementing full-day, every day kindergarten programs as opposed to half-day, every day programs or full-day, alternate day programs. This study focuses on the issues and concerns involved when making the transition from a half-day or alternate day kindergarten program to a developmentally appropriate full-day program. A brief history of kindergarten is presented and research is examined and reported upon concerning areas of financial considerations, classroom set-up, organization and maintenance, curriculum development, and parental involvement for full-day kindergartens.

A survey of parents and guardians of future kindergarten students in a small, rural, Midwest, parochial school system …

Kindergarten Writing Program, Kimberly E. Dewulf

Graduate Research Papers

In the kindergarten writing program, many experiences can help writing become an enjoyable experience for children. The learning environment can nurture pleasure in literature, an enthusiasm for reading and writing, and foster many opportunities to engage in the writing process. Some of the activities can be presented by the teacher while others can be initiated by the children.

Early Interventions In Learning To Read, Kathleen Duax

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this literature review is to provide an insight into the world of creating readers; people who love to read and want to read. The review presents information about early interventions by parents and teachers that can increase a child's ability to learn to read. The intent is to help parents and teachers become more aware of the dimensions of literacy, to allow them to become more informed about literacy and the importance of early interventions, and to use this information in ways that can help children become readers.

The Use Of Multiple Intelligences In Designing Curriculum For An Early Childhood Classroom, Dawn Osterhaus

Graduate Research Papers

Early childhood curriculum implementation is not yet well represented in the literature pertaining to multiple intelligences. For purposes of this project, the literature pertaining to early childhood classrooms where the seven multiple intelligences were implemented was reviewed, and a preschool implementing the seven multiple intelligences has been written. This curriculum makes a difference in how the authors' lesson plans are designed and classroom activities are chosen. The resulting curriculum may also make a difference in how other early childhood educators set up their overall curriculum, and provides an easy-to-follow resource guide of potential use when planning individual units and activities.

Choosing An Effective Kindergarten Program : Comparing Full-Day And Half-Day Schedules, Lori A. Frost

Graduate Research Papers

Due to changes in American society and education during the last twenty years the popularity of all-day, everyday kindergarten programs has grown. Among the many issues cited as reasons for implementing all-day kindergarten programs are ". . . a growing need for child care, the need for more opportunity for socialization among young children, and a demand for more academically challenging programs" (Rust, 1993, p. 8).

The "whole child" approach is what we strive for today. However, that focus has been compromised in some instances by placing financial, parental, or school needs ahead of what is best for kindergarten students. …

Nsu Master's Program In Life Span Care And Administration Catalog 1996-1997 (Includes Application And Admission Forms), Nova Southeastern University

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice College Archive

No abstract provided.

Nsu Summer Instruction Master's Program In Life Span Care And Administration: "The Profession And Public Policy: Developing Leadership For The Coming Century" July 19–27, 1996, Nova Southeastern University

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice College Archive

No abstract provided.

From Bulbs To Flowers, Elizabeth Vazquez

Graduate Student Independent Studies

In this thesis, I first developed the notion of a bulb as a means of introducing science to young children (ages five to eight).

First, bulb experiments were implemented. After a literature search, it was discovered that few books introduce scientific concepts with a storyline for young children. Therefore, I developed such a book in the process of writing the thesis. Lesson plans on bulbs for teachers were also developed and can be used in conjunction with the book or independently.

Identifying Phonological Awareness ?Outcomes In A Personal Setting, Julie A. Taylor

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this project was to create a procedures guide containing research-supported lessons that facilitate the acquisition of phonological awareness by students in a preschool or kindergarten classroom. An investigation of the related literature revealed aspects of phonological awareness that can be taught to preliterate children before the onset of formal training. The product of this investigation is a guide containing lessons and activities either extracted from or modeled after those field tested in many classrooms.

Supporting Emergent Writing In Kindergarten, Lynne L. Dufault

All Graduate Projects

The development of emergent writing and the factors which support writing were studied. Five ways that teachers support emergent writing in the classroom were identified and used as the foundation for the developed activities in this project. The activities were designed by the author for use in kindergarten and can be adapted to fit other primary levels. Recommendations for supporting emergent writing in classrooms were given. iii