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Full-Text Articles in Early Childhood Education
Social And Emotional Skills Develop Through Play-Based Learning, April Welding
Social And Emotional Skills Develop Through Play-Based Learning, April Welding
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This action research study was driven by the researcher’s interest in play-based learning. This action research investigates if social and emotional skills develop through play in a preschool classroom setting. This action research answered the question: Can social and emotional skills develop through play-based learning? Preschool students were engaged in developmental learning play-based learning centers that helped them academically, socially, and emotionally. Teachers were more intentional with interactions with students. Teachers were more present with students, encouraging engagement with learning opportunities. This research study was conducted throughout the 2021 – 2022 academic school year. Data was collected throughout two Teaching …
Fine Motor Matters - A Plan To Improve Fine Motor Skills At The Early Childhood Level, Natasha Slater
Fine Motor Matters - A Plan To Improve Fine Motor Skills At The Early Childhood Level, Natasha Slater
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Fine motor skills at the early childhood level have been well-researched. The early childhood years have proven to be vital years of growth and development in a child's life. Studies have also found that fine motor skills have a direct correlation to other areas of development, such as literacy, math, gross motor, etc. Research conducted at Rock Valley Community School District suggests that fine motor skills are an area that needs improvement. This school improvement plan describes in detail the process needed to implement a fine motor program for students in grades Preschool through Kindergarten. With successful implementation, the fine …
The Value Of Play-Based Learning In Early Childhood Classrooms, Courtney Hansmann
The Value Of Play-Based Learning In Early Childhood Classrooms, Courtney Hansmann
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This action research study investigated if students can make social-emotional and academic gains through play-based learning in an early childhood classroom. This action research answered the question: Can preschool students make academic and social gains in a play-based classroom within one school year? Preschool students were engaged in rich materials that helped in math, literacy, and language. Teachers were more intentional about their interactions with students and were more engaged. This research study was conducted throughout the 2021-2022 school year. Data was collected throughout the three GOLD checkpoints in the school year.
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
The Power Of Play In Early Childhood Education, Rachel Mary Nichols
The Power Of Play In Early Childhood Education, Rachel Mary Nichols
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review synthesizes research on how early childhood classrooms use play as a learning tool for students. The review of literature examines different types of play and how children develop in relation to play. Play in the classroom is often viewed as a reward for completing schoolwork, but in preschool classrooms and beyond, play offers a wide variety of learning opportunities and aids in the development of new skills. This literature review uses scholarly articles and journals to examine the different types of early childhood play in the classroom and how children develop in relation to being able to …
The Effects Of Technology In Early Childhood, Krista Werling
The Effects Of Technology In Early Childhood, Krista Werling
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review examines the effects of technology in early childhood. This literature review uses scholarly journals and articles to show the advantages and disadvantages of technology in early childhood. The research examines how technology can impact a child's development in the areas of (a) social emotional, (b) physical, (c) cognitive, (d) language, (e) mathematics, and (f) literacy skills. The advantages and disadvantages of technology will be reviewed in each of these early childhood developmental areas. Parents and teachers must be aware of screen time guidelines. Recommendations from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the …
The Level Of Engagement Of Typically Developing Students Versus Students Enrolled In Special Education And Their Response To Teacher-Led Music Instruction Versus Technology-Led Music, Candice Haugen
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Technology comes in many forms and is more accessible than ever before. There are many notable benefits of using technology. However, there are also negative effects when used incorrectly or not in moderation. There are various views on when technology should be incorporated into a classroom, the types of classrooms and how early within the educational setting it should be used. Based on research gathered, technology should be used within the classroom to enhance learning, not replace face-to-face interactions or experiences. Music within the early childhood classroom is beneficial to all learners within the environment. There are various ways to …
Executive Function And Self Regulation In Early Childhood, Jill Casey
Executive Function And Self Regulation In Early Childhood, Jill Casey
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
There has been a shift in the kindergarten classroom from one filled with play and exploration to one filled with academic rigor. In response to this, the focus of many preschool classrooms have also shifted to focus more on academic development rather than social emotional development. Executive function skills, which include inhibitory control, working memory and cognitive flexibility have been found to predict academic success and school readiness more than IQ. Self-regulation which refers to controlling behavior in response to a stimulus is interrelated with executive function and also is a predictor of success. Caregivers and early childhood classrooms must …
Using Role Play To Teach Social Emotional Skills In The Early Childhood Classroom, Rebecca Havens
Using Role Play To Teach Social Emotional Skills In The Early Childhood Classroom, Rebecca Havens
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this research was to determine if using role play in the classroom would be an effective teaching strategy to improve the social emotional skills of kindergarten students. With the focus of kindergarten shifting towards more academics, it remains important to teach social and emotional skills with an effective, efficient approach. Participants included 19 kindergarten students in a small elementary school in the Midwest. The research included using children’s literature to prompt discussions and role playing activities around social emotional skills. The role play activities included practicing what to say to a peer when a problem arises in …
Social Emotional Development In Early Childhood, Dawn Askeland
Social Emotional Development In Early Childhood, Dawn Askeland
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review explores young children’s social emotional development and its importance. Social emotional development is crucial to a child’s success in school and in life. Social emotional development is defined and ideas are presented on how to promote it. Social emotional skills can be promoted in early childhood classrooms everyday. This can be done in a variety of lessons and activities. Social emotional development can be promoted by embedding it in all areas of the day. In recent years, other priorities have been seen in early childhood classrooms and at home. Some researchers believe this has resulted in a …
How Blended Learning Impacts Student Engagement In An Early Childhood Classroom, Natalie Kocour
How Blended Learning Impacts Student Engagement In An Early Childhood Classroom, Natalie Kocour
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this action research project was to determine if teaching with a blended learning approach increases student engagement in an early childhood classroom. Participants were three year-olds with individualized education plans and general education four and five year-olds in a half day preschool program. Students came from a wide variety of backgrounds and different socio-economic backgrounds. Quantitative data was collected through observation by recording which students were actively engaged, passively engaged, disengaged, or disruptive during a twenty –minute small group time for nine weeks. Qualitative data was collected through observations by the teacher and para-educator, interviews with students, …
Play In Early Childhood, Keri Griswold
Play In Early Childhood, Keri Griswold
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review looks at play in early childhood education and why play is important for early learners. The review looks at the history of play and the benefits that play has on brain development, as well as defining play. Adults play an important role in play, as does the early childhood learning environment. Early learners develop their critical thinking skills and their social and emotional skills through play. The curriculum that is offered to early learners should revolve around play but should ensure that they are being provided the opportunity to learn about the outdoors, math, reading, and all …
Effects Of Print In Early Childhood Programs, Marcie Lentsch
Effects Of Print In Early Childhood Programs, Marcie Lentsch
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This paper will discuss the effects of print on early childhood classrooms. The first goal was to determine if referencing print during read alouds would increase foundational literacy skills. The second goal, was to identify if implementing the Sit Together and Read (S.T.A.R.) framework would increase emergent literacy skills with three, four and five year olds students. Two early childhood classrooms from the same school district were included in the study. One classroom embedded print references and the S.T.A.R. framework during repeated read alouds. The other classroom continued with normal read aloud routines. Data was analyzed using the Early Literacy …
Using Music And Movement To Enhance Cognitive Development, Bobbie Jo Pogue
Using Music And Movement To Enhance Cognitive Development, Bobbie Jo Pogue
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review explores the research done in the use of music and movement in enhancing cognitive development, focusing mainly on the early childhood setting. The demand on preschool students has increased over the years and many even say preschool is the new kindergarten. For many years, young students have been taught through song, movement and actions, listening to music, and how to play an instrument. These are all interrelated to helping enhance a child’s cognitive development. Teachers tend to be so focused on just the academic part of teaching, even in preschool, that they forget the importance of music …
The Importance Of Play In Early Childhood Education, Melissa Irvin
The Importance Of Play In Early Childhood Education, Melissa Irvin
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This literature review stresses the importance of play for all early learners. The review begins by discussing the history of play and its impact on the evolution of family dynamics over time. Studies have shown that playing provides a safe and necessary way for young learners to be able to practice and experience a variety of life skills, including problem solving within a peer group while gaining and enhancing language skills. Through daily play, young children gain valuable life experiences through a variety of roles that will support growth and ultimately translate into adulthood. According to research, play is an …
Addressing Behavioral Deficits In Early Childhood Education: Promoting Positive Socio-Emotional Development Through Dramatic Play, Abbi Strobbe
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This paper investigates the detrimental effects behavior can have on a child’s social-emotional development and the vital role dramatic play opportunities have in overcoming these developmental deficits. A child’s trajectory for success in school begins in early childhood. Children experience meaningful connections to learning, as well as higher teacher and peer approval, when they are capable of maintaining positive interactions in the classroom. For this to occur, children must have a solid foundation in socio-emotional skills such as expression, understanding, and regulation. Behavioral deficits impede development and reduce the likelihood of academic achievement. However, application of early behavioral and social …
Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Evidence Based Practices, Michaela Creighton
Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Evidence Based Practices, Michaela Creighton
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Each child that has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is different. However, they have similar characteristics in that they lack communication, social, and adaptive skills. As well as reduced cognitive functioning and gross motor skills. This literature review will look at some of the evidence-based practices for teaching children who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. It provides information on how to implement them in the early childhood classroom, and focuses on how each practice allows the teacher to adapt it to the student with ASD in one's classroom. It is important that trainings are offered for …
Flexible Seating In The Early Childhood Classroom, Chasity L. Hardin
Flexible Seating In The Early Childhood Classroom, Chasity L. Hardin
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Flexible seating has become a recent trend in education. As teachers try to reach the different needs of learners, flexible seating is another way to allow students to comfortably be engaged in learning. Flexible seating gives children the power to choose. Giving them the power of choice, gives students ownership over their participation and engagement in the classroom. Flexible seating can include a variety of options including scoop rockers, pillows, disc o’ sits, standing desks, therapy balls, and many more options. Some professionals are beginning to note that students are often more engaged in their learning when flexible seating options …
The Effect Of Technology On Student Achievement With English Language Learners In An Early Childhood Classroom Setting, Tiffany Vasquez-Dewein
The Effect Of Technology On Student Achievement With English Language Learners In An Early Childhood Classroom Setting, Tiffany Vasquez-Dewein
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
The purpose of this action research project was to determine if there was a correlation between the use of iPads to improve student achievement and traditional methods of teaching with four and five-year-old English language learners (ELLs). Two control groups of four ELLs were taught in math three times a week. Control group A was taught using iPad applications to support math teaching in alongside traditional teachings in math. Control group B were taught with age appropriate early childhood materials such as counting cards and manipulatives to support the traditional teachings in math. Data was collected at the end of …
The Use Of Visual Schedules, Amber Connelly
The Use Of Visual Schedules, Amber Connelly
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
This paper explores the use of visual schedules to support students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder with transitions throughout the school day. Students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder have a tough time interpreting verbal directions throughout the school day; therefore, there is an increase in student behaviors during transitions (Dettmer, Simpson, Brenda, & Ganz, 2000). The students utilized in this study are preschool aged students, which means they are between the ages of three to five. All students are in an integrated preschool classroom. The researcher implemented and created individualized visual schedules for each student in this paper. The researcher …
Preschool Social Emotional Learning And Curriculum Design: The Changing System, Amy J. Clark
Preschool Social Emotional Learning And Curriculum Design: The Changing System, Amy J. Clark
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
As early as the seventeenth century, theorists began to recognize early childhood as a distinct time of life. Prodigious research from the past forty years describes the positive educational outcomes for students attending quality early childhood programs. This literature review will examine the history of early childhood education and important themes that have emerged over time. The theme of social emotional learning will be a focus as one of the key outcomes of early learning programs and a determinant of later school success. In addition, the effects of poverty on the developing child, along with ways to mitigate these effects …
Brain-Based Learning And Whole Brain Teaching Methods, Aleen S. Wolken
Brain-Based Learning And Whole Brain Teaching Methods, Aleen S. Wolken
Master's Theses & Capstone Projects
Whole Brain Teaching is a teaching strategy that combines cooperative learning and direct instruction. It is a strategy that has been implemented within many K-12 classrooms throughout the nation. In this article, the researcher defines Whole Brain Teaching, describes its impact on student learning, and highlights conflicts and myths. The researcher also presents ideas on future research. The purpose of this literature review was to find information regarding implementation of Whole Brain Teaching in an inclusive early childhood classroom.