Early Childhood Education Commons^™

Generations Growing Together: Intergenerational Learning As A Pedagogical Strategy In Early Childhood Education And Care Services. A Handbook For Practitioners And Trainers, Anne Fitzpatrick

Books/Book chapters

Despite being the oldest form of learning, IGL has declined steadily over time due to wide-ranging social, cultural, economic and demographic changes. Children in the Western world are growing up in smaller, geographically dispersed family circles and, consequently, have fewer opportunities to interact with different age groups and to see themselves as part of a multigenerational society. Older people are living longer, yet are frequently separated from their families by distance, migration and family breakdown and, more recently, by COVID-19. Additionally, with the increasing attendance at age-segregated services, including preschools and care homes, traditional places and opportunities for age groups …

The Impact Of Child Learning Centres On Parenting Practices And Early Childhood Development: Lessons From The Rumah Anak Sigap Program 2021-2023, Bakir Haryanto, Fayna Faradiena, Budiarti Rahayu, Hani Yulindrasari, Urip Purwono, Radi Negara

Early Childhood Education

Research in child development demonstrates that early childhood experiences, especially in the first 1,000 days of life, lay the foundation for future growth and development. In Indonesia, however, early childhood education programs traditionally focus on children aged 4-6 years. In response to this concern, Tanoto Foundation, through its Siapkan Generasi Anak Berprestasi (SIGAP) program, seeks to ensure optimal development and school readiness children in Indonesia. One of the key strategies of SIGAP is the establishment of Rumah Anak SIGAP centers, a model of a child development centre that provides parenting training and early stimulation services targeted to children aged 0-3 …

Exploring The Contribution Of Public Pre-Primary School In Promoting Play-Based Learning Environment: Case Of Two Schools In Nachingwea District., Alam Jacob Nsana

Master of Education

Play and children's learning are inherently intertwined, with play serving as children's natural way of engaging with and understanding the world around them. This study underscores the essential role of play in facilitating children's social, cognitive, and emotional development, emphasizing its significance as a foundational aspect of early childhood education. Educationists, parents, and administrators recognize the power of play in allowing children to explore and learn autonomously, providing them with equal opportunities for engagement in learning activities.

However, the study acknowledges the challenge of determining the most effective ways and timing for utilizing play to facilitate learning. It aimed to …

Exploring The Contribution Of Inclusive Practices On Social-Emotional Development In Early Childhood Education: A Case Of Nyangao Primary School, Frolence Lwegoshora Paschal

Master of Education

This study investigated the contribution of inclusive practices on social-emotional development in early childhood education, focusing on a case study of Nyangao Primary School in southern part of Tanzania. Inclusive practices refer to the implementation of educational strategies that ensure the active participation and engagement of all students, including those with diverse backgrounds and abilities. The social-emotional development of young children plays a crucial role in their overall well-being and future success. However, the extent to which inclusive practices can positively influence social-emotional development in the early childhood education context remains understudied. Drawing upon a qualitative research approach, this study …

Examining The Role Of District Education Officers In Implementing Early Childhood Education: A Case Study Of Bukoba Municipality, Leonard Namala Ndyakowa

Master of Education

This research delves into the pivotal role of education officers in implementing early childhood education within Bukoba Municipality. The comprehensive findings unveil the multifaceted responsibilities of these officers, including the identification of children for enrollment, the establishment of conducive learning environments, and the efficient allocation of human resources. Acknowledging challenges such as inadequate classrooms and teachers, the study emphasizes the complexities associated with delivering quality pre-primary education in the region.

Additionally, the research underscores the significance of in-service training, school visits, data collection, and the integration of science and technology in supporting education officers' roles. It sheds light on challenges …

A Narrative Inquiry Into The Experiences Of Male Teachers In Early Childhood Education In Mombasa County, Purity Kajuju Mburunga

Master of Education

This qualitative study explored the experiences of male teachers working in Early Childhood Education (ECE) centres in Mombasa, Kenya. Through interviews and observations of three male ECE teachers, the study investigated their perspectives and narratives to understand the unique aspects of their roles, the factors supporting their career choices, and the challenges they face. Findings revealed that societal stereotypes persist in associating caregiving roles primarily with femininity. Male teachers encountered initial shock and skepticism from stakeholders when choosing ECE careers. They also faced external judgment and scrutiny in their interactions with students. However, over time, as parents witnessed their suitability, …

Exploring Teacher’S Use Of Low Cost And No- Cost Resources To Enhance English Language Reading Skills In An Early Childhood Education Setting In One Government Primary School In Yumbe District Uganda: An Action Research., Rebecca Gobbi Konyio

Master of Education

This dissertation explores the utilization of low-cost and no-cost resources to enhance English language reading skills in an early childhood education (ECE) setting in a government primary school in Yumbe District, Uganda. The study addresses the challenges posed by limited resources in teaching reading and investigates how teachers can effectively incorporate affordable resources to improve reading proficiency among young learners. The research employs an action research approach, utilizing interviews, observations, and document analysis as data collection methods. This study adopted Susman& Evered (1978) action research process which highlights the research process in the field from the reconnaissance that helped to …

Exploring The Integration Of Ict In Early Childhood Education To Enhance Literacy And Numeracy In Kaliua District: Insights From Preschool Teachers’ Practices., Nemes Danstan Benguye

Master of Education

This research project explores how ICT is integrated in early childhood education in Tanzania, focusing on its potential to enhance reading, writing and numeracy skills among young learners. It emphasizes the importance of ICT integration in shaping children's academic trajectory and cognitive development. In developed countries many studies on ICT integration in ECE to enhance literacy and numeracy skills are being conducted unlike those in the global south.  Findings from those studies conducted in the global south, particularly in Tanzania have consistently documented the contributing factors for limited opportunities, challenges associated with the availability of ICT tools and resources, and …

Fostering Environmental Sustainability Through Early Childhood Education(Ece)., Tahira Jabeen, Fozia Parveen, Nasima Shakeel

Books

No abstract provided.

Does Earth Feel? (2021) By Marc Majewski, Alaina Gostomski

Picture Books

With spare prose and evocative paintings, author-illustrator Marc Majewski asks fourteen critical questions -- including Does Earth feel calm? Does Earth feel curious? Does Earth feel hurt? Does Earth feel heard? -- to encourage active thinking and discussion about our planet.

Blackout (2011) By John Rocco, Peter Shea

Picture Books

In this Caldecott Honor Book, Blackout, a hot urban night takes an interesting turn when the power goes out and an urban family -- each busy with something that requires electricity -- discover new things about themselves and their community.

Hurricane (2021) By John Rocco, Peter Shea

Picture Books

This book pictures the devastation of today's powerful storms. The hurricane wrecks things and drives people from their homes. The boy in the story finds his beloved dock broken up, where he used to swim and fish. The story centers on cooperation and neighborhood resilience: people can get through disasters if they work together.

Blizzard (2014) By John Rocco, Peter Shea

Picture Books

Based on the author’s childhood experience, this book tells the story of a boy seeing his neighborhood transformed into an alien landscape by a superstorm and finding ways to get around in it when adults cannot. The book invites readers to re-see “normal” lives and to reconsider what is possible.

We Are Water Protectors (2020) By Carole Lindstrom, Peter Shea

Picture Books

We Are Water Protectors is a beautiful and partisan book, and the teacher or parent who wants to help children to think better could not find a better place to start, giving the child of whatever age the opportunity to feel the force of this plea, and then to recognize the need to understand the political context within which this issue arises, and the honest differences of opinion about policy that arise in an already disrupted world.

Director Follow-Up Of Early Childhood Educator Professional Development, Katherine Jordan

Theses and Dissertations--Early Childhood, Special Education, and Counselor Education

Research has shown follow-up to be an important component for professional development (PD) to result in teacher behavior change. However, PD rarely includes follow-up support. This pilot study used multiple methods to determine the feasibility of Head Start (HS) directors providing teachers PD follow-up support. Two aspects of feasibility were examined. Practical feasibility was based on whether the directors could master the procedure for providing PD follow-up support and whether they had time to provide PD follow-up support. Social validity feasibility was measured as the acceptability of the procedures and the likelihood of directors continuing to use the protocol prescribed …

Becoming A Good Creature (2020) By Sy Montgomery, Samantha Piede

Picture Books

Becoming a Good Creature outlines moral lessons Sy Montgomery has learned from interactions with animals, both domestic and wild, such as “Love Little Lives,” “Don’t Be Afraid,” and “Make Your Own Family.” Our willingness to be attentive to other creatures – not just the ones like us with “two legs,” but also “four or even eight” – opens up the possibility of finding something ethically significant in these encounters. She tells us that “all have taught me something important about how to be a good creature in the world.”

Cultivating Culturally Responsive Early Childhood Educators: An Examination Of Practices, Perspectives, And Reform Efforts, Kamiesha Vann

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

This dissertation research reports on the development and implementation of a pre-pilot for early childhood preservice teachers based on seven specified learning modules on Culturally Responsive Anti-Bias Education (CRABE). In accordance with Pennsylvania’s Regulations, Professional Learning Standards, and Quality Rating Improvement Systems (QRIS), the learning modules were designed to prepare preservice teachers to teach diverse populations of students. This research has high implications for higher education, which plays a role in supporting preservice teachers through coursework and field experience. The topics of the learning modules are Demographics: There’s a Shift in Education, Preparing Preservice Teachers Through The Course Catalog, Introduction …

Examining Teachers' Perceptions Of Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices And The Impact On The Academic And Social-Emotional Success Of Black And Brown Boys In Voluntary Prekindergarten Classrooms: A Qualitative Study, Stephanie Gomez Jackson

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to explore voluntary pre-kindergarten (VPK) teachers’ perspectives regarding the theory of culturally responsive pedagogy. This study also sought to understand how teachers implement culturally responsive teaching practices in VPK classrooms and their perceptions of how culturally responsive teaching impacts the academic and social-emotional success of Black and Brown male students. The study was conducted using a qualitative, phenomenological methodology. Gay’s (2018) pillars of culturally responsive teaching were used as the conceptual framework to explore the cultural characteristics, experiences, and perspectives of voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) teachers. Data collection tools included (1) two recorded semi-structured interviews, …

Critical Reflection Through A Growth Mindset: Project Report, Fiona Boylan

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

This resource describes a project where eight Western Australian Independent Schools engaged in critical reflection using a growth mindset. Partnerships between early childhood teachers/leaders, schools and the university were enhanced through a community of practice to share information, critically reflect, problem solve and create new knowledge. Participating schools explored emerging issues and changing policy directions in the new Early Years Learning Framework v2.0 (Australian Government Department of Education [AGDE], 2022) to design, deliver and evaluate quality learning and teaching practices for children through critical reflection. Teachers expanded their knowledge of mindset theory and importantly how a growth mindset can be …

Characteristics Of Award-Winning Children’S Books About Agriculture: An Analysis Of Content, And The Perspectives Of Authors, Illustrators, And Publishers, Addison L. Beckham

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this two-article qualitative study was to characterize children's literature about agriculture and to describe the perceptions of authors and illustrators who are responsible for writing and designing these successful publications. This will result in the ability of organizations like Feeding Minds Press to provide writers, illustrators, and publishers with effective strategies and techniques to improve the accuracy and overall quality of children’s literature about agriculture. Few parameters exist for authors of children’s books about agriculture (Biser, 2007). These parameters are necessary to ensure the quality and accuracy of these educational efforts (Serafini, 2012). Though Feeding Minds Press …

A Phenomenological Study Of The Perceptions Of Inclusive Preschool Education Through The Lens Of Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Educators., Brooke Noon

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Young children with special needs have been educated in early childhood settings with typically developing peers for over 40 years. Successful educational inclusion in the least restrictive environment requires appropriate aids and supports (Individuals with Disabilities Act, 2004). Although researchers have studied many aspects of special education, little investigation has been conducted on the perspectives of dual certified interdisciplinary early childhood educator’s (IECE) perceptions on full inclusion in preschool. This study was designed to examine the connection between the perceptions of IECE teacher’s experiences as a dual certified educator in preschool. In total, 10 IECE teachers were interviewed and completed …

Mindfulness As An Emotional Well-Being Tool For Beginning Teachers, Brittany Crumley

All Dissertations

Today’s early educators are responsible for providing a stimulating learning environment to facilitate student academic outcomes, in addition to providing a positive emotional climate to support student social-emotional functioning. Early childhood educators engage with various physical and emotional stressors throughout the workday (e.g., disruptive behaviors, standardized assessment), and to be effective, they must be able to cope with their own emotional reactivity. Teacher experiences of work stress may lead to decreased performance, burnout, and poor student outcomes, creating serious concerns for the education environment. One transferable strategy to help teachers’ emotional well-being is mindfulness self-care (e.g., breathing practices), which can …

Global Educational Ramifications Of Covid-19 On Minorities And Students Living In Poverty Or Extreme Poverty: A Literature Review, Jessie S. Thacker-King

Journal of Global Education and Research

Public education requires all stakeholders to collaborate as a community and focus on the essential factors that create a path for student progress, growth, and maturity. The result nurtures students from kindergarten to graduation and beyond and affords them opportunities to become efficacious members of their communities. Schools are a business operating on the premise of the service industry, working collectively with and for the communities they serve. Their operational parameters are to work with all stakeholders to successfully facilitate excellence in education for all students regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Recent COVID-19 school closures have opened dialogues …

Facilitating Effective Mathematical Teaching Practices In Preschool, Funda Gonulates, Jasook Gilbert

Journal of Global Education and Research

Initial seeds for mathematics literacy are planted during early childhood. Children benefit when they are exposed to and provided with opportunities for math experiences that emphasize their holistic development and not just mathematics proficiency in isolation. This way of viewing and presenting mathematics to young children requires teachers who are equipped with strong mathematics teaching skills. This study examined a 21-hour professional development series for public school preschool teachers on early numeracy, geometry, mathematical reasoning, and teaching pedagogies. This professional development series aimed to help preschool teachers incorporate effective mathematical practices and increase their comfort level in teaching mathematics. Participants …

The Role Of Digital Technologies In Supporting Quality Improvement In Australian Early Childhood Education And Care Settings, Maria Hatzigianni, Tanya Stephenson, Linda J. Harrison, Manjula Waniganayake, Philip Li, Lennie Barblett, Fay Hadley, Rebecca Andrews, Belinda Davis, Susan Irvine

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

This national study explored the role of digital technologies in early childhood education and care settings and whether they could contribute to quality improvement as reported by educators and assessors of quality in Australia. In this paper, data from Stage 2 of the Quality Improvement Research Project were used, which comprised 60 Quality Improvement Plans from educators linked with 60 Assessment and Rating reports from the assessors who visited early childhood centres as part of the administration of the National Quality Standards by each of Australia’s State and Territory jurisdictions. Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory (Bronfenbrenner, U. (1995).Developmental ecology through space …

The Overcoming Disadvantage In Early Childhood Study: Evaluation Of The Australian Literacy And Numeracy Foundation’S Early Language And Literacy Program. Summary Report, Dan Cloney, Kellie Picker, David Jeffries, Prue Anderson

Early Childhood Education

This report provides a summary of the completed Overcoming Disadvantage in Early Childhood (ODEC) longitudinal research study. The study was designed to evaluate the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation’s (ALNF) Early Language and Literacy (EL&L) program by answering the research question: What is the effect of the EL&L program on the development of language and literacy skills in preschool aged children? An integral component of this study was the development of the Early Language and Literacy Developmental Index (ELLDI), a new tool to measure oral language and literacy learning. The development of the ELLDI was based on the recognised need …

An Exploration Of Leadership And Management Challenges Among Center-Based Early Childhood Education Directors, Yeni Portillo-Lemus

Doctor of Education Program Dissertations

Managing early childhood education (ECE) programs is intricate, with directors facing challenges in organizational leadership, business management, and meeting pedagogical standards. Early childhood education directors are vital as they play a crucial role in ensuring quality education and care. Despite the importance, research on leadership and management, especially through a gender lens, is limited. Therefore, the purpose of this qualitative narrative inquiry was to explore the leadership and management challenges Los Angeles County based, private-for-profit, single-center early childhood education directors experience in their leadership and management roles. Six participants who self-identified as ECE directors completed semi-structured interviews over Zoom. These …

Understanding Early Cognitive Development: Using Pat Early Years To Support Student Learning, Sandra Knowles

2021-2030 ACER Research Conferences

The correlation between early cognitive and psychosocial development is well established. For this reason, some measurement tools, such as UNICEF’s Early Childhood Development Index (ECDI2030), provide a single score as an overall indicator of a child’s development because performing poorly in one area is likely to mean inadequate development across all areas. While these broad indicators can be useful at a system level, understanding children’s development in discrete domain areas is essential for meaningful intervention. This presentation will explore how measurement tools, such as ACER’s Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) for the Early Years, can be used to support targeted intervention …

The Contribution Of Learning Trajectories To Enacting The Early Years Learning Framework V2.0, Caroline Cohrssen

2021-2030 ACER Research Conferences

The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia v2.0 (EYLF) guides pedagogy and practice with children aged from birth to 5 years and states that ‘over time, children engage with increasingly complex ideas’. With 5 learning outcomes and 8 principles of practice, this requires educators to be highly skilled in facilitating children’s engagement with increasingly complex ideas. It also assumes that all educators recognise children’s demonstrations of understanding, and know what knowledge (or capabilities) likely preceded this understanding, and what comes next. As a framework, this specific information is missing from the EYLF. Learning trajectories may assist educators to recognise demonstrations …

Conceptual Development: How Do Early Educators And Teachers Support Children's Early Thinking In Stem?, Marilyn Fleer

2021-2030 ACER Research Conferences

As national and state-based reforms in early education roll-out across Australia, concern for building a well-qualified workforce to meet growing demand has intensified. In parallel with the reforms, teachers and educators are reminded by the recently released 2022 Early Years Learning Framework to design programs that support intentionality in play-based learning. However, the literature shows that despite the concept of intentional teaching being around since 2009, difficulties with how to do this remains. This presentation takes up this challenge, by 1) sharing the collective findings of 6 Australian Research Council-funded research projects into play and learning in STEM; and 2) …