Week 5:
The European Early Childhood
Education Research Association (EECERA) is a non-profit research entity that
provides a multi-disciplinary emphasis on early childhood research.
Some of the current international research topics are:
§ Seeking a multi-disciplinary
approach on the early childhood field
§ Sustaining and developing
the heritage of European early childhood theorists
Something surprising I experienced while searching this website
was the great opportunity they offer early childhood professionals to become country
coordinators. This sounded really interesting and I am thinking of applying. This
position would coordinate the efforts of participation at a national level,
creating a supported international group of coordinators, support the entities
goals and values, and increase the awareness of the EECERA in our nation.
I also learned that the EECERA participates in an annual
conference that attracts more than 600 international researchers. These
participants are encouraged to present on behalf of their work as early
childhood educators.
Good luck on this new journey
ReplyDeleteWeek 2
ReplyDeleteThe focus for my research simulation is on coaching in early childhood programs. I chose this topic because I have been an Early Learning Quality Improvement Coach for 4 years, up until last month.
In July 2012, Washington State began implementing a state-wide Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). I was involved in the pilot and field test stages that led up to the full implementation. The research and data provided from our field test had a huge impact on our early childhood field. From the results, we were able to apply for funding in which we received from the Race to the Top grant. This funding allowed a jumpstart on our state-wide QRIS implementation.
The subtopics I chose from my research simulation are: professional development as it relates to coaching in the early childhood field, the coaching model/framework, and the influence of coaching on quality early childhood programs. The information in our discussion for this week has helped me assess websites and their validity.
If anyone has any suggestions or comments for me as I delve into this research topic, please let me know. I really appreciate your valuable support!
Good luck to you all!
Maggie
Week 3: Option 1
ReplyDeleteAs a professional I have experienced participating in an impact research study. In 2009, two communities in Washington State participated in a Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) field test. I was an Early Learning Quality Improvement Coach who coached childcare providers in the treatment group.
The purpose of the study was to determine whether the impact of coaching and incentives (grants and professional development) increased quality of childcare. I feel like the coaching support I provided increased the quality of care as well as encouraged childcare providers to participate in activities to further their level of education and training.
This field test supported Washington State’s plan to offer a state-wide QRIS. Having concrete data provided us with the expertise needed for implementing a solid program. Last year our state applied for and was awarded the Race to the Top grant that gave us a great amount of money to implement a state-wide QRIS. I think this is a great foundation for children’s success in school and life
Week 8:
ReplyDelete•What insights have you gained about research from taking this course?
I have gained many insights from taking this course. I have experienced research and now feel more comfortable with approaching research and conducting & analyzing data.
•In what ways have your ideas about the nature of doing research changed?
My ideas of doing research have changed. I feel less intimidated by doing research and have a plan and organized way of approaching things now.
•What lessons about planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood did you learn?
I learned how to plan, design, and conduct research in an effective manner. By completing the "Understanding Research" charts, I now have a better understanding of the content of the text and feel challenged in a way that helps me understand it.
•What were some of the challenges you encountered—and in what ways did you meet them?
The only challenge I encountered was really delving into research and understanding the terms and content associated with the course work. I needed to be organized and analytical when conducting assignments.
•What are some of the ways your perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course?
From the discussion postings and classmates blog comments, I have an understanding that we are all in this together and came into this course with a fear of research. I feel like we are all confident enough to further our studies and build a strong community of early childhood professionals.