Assignment:
Paper Requirements:
1) 5 to 7 double-spaced,APA formatted pages inclusiveof in-textcitations
2) Title Page and a References Page are separate
3) Use no fewer than three resources; two must be resources you identified
Objective: Apply fundamental theories and concepts by focusing on one key aspect of early childhood education. NAEYC Standards: 2a, 4a, 4b,5b, 6d Your "big" project for CHS111 requires you to conduct research and write a research paper! As you will learn throughout the course, it is extremely important that you have a working knowledge of early childhood education upon completing this course. A working knowledge meansyou understandthe underlying theories and fundamental concepts and that you can put them to practice!
This research project runs Units 1 through 7. Thus you have seven units (weeks) to complete it. While this project is large, it is definitely manageable as the steps and timeline have been mapped for you.
The requirements for your research paper are as follows:
1. Select one topic for research from the list of four topics provided below.
2. Conduct research on your selected topic. Identify and report on three different resources. At least one resource must be new. Many resources are provided throughout the different units to help guide your research. Be sure to check supplemental materials listed in both the NAEYC Library and supplemental resources provided in each Unit. Feel free to use these resources in your written paper. However, you must demonstrate that you also identified and used at least one new resource.
Research Topics
Option 1: Historical Figure
1) From the list below, choose and research one historical figure that had great influence on early childhood education.
a) Maria Montessori e) Lev Vygotsky
b) Friedrich Frobel f) Abraham Maslow
c) Jean Piaget g) T. Berry Brazelton
d) Erik Erikson h) Magda Gerber
2) Provide biographical information (na me, time period, place of birth/death, etc.).
3) Write a detailed account of the person's significant contribution(s) and central concepts of the theory. Identify at least two publications.
4) Determine the historical figure's views on the value of positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation for young children's optimal development and learning.
5) Explain effective strategies and tools for early education. If appropriate and/or relevant, include appropriate uses of technology.
6) Research and explainthe theorist's view on the role of parents, families and community in children's development and learning.
7) Describe the scope of his/her influence on early education for today's children. State your opinionsand explain why.
Option 2: Early Childhood Model
1) Research one early childhood model from the list below.
a) Early Intervention e) Project Approach
b) Montessori f) High Scope
c) Reggio Emilia g) Bank Street Approach
d) Project Approach h) Head Start/Early Head Start
2) Provide background information (e.g., who started it? What was the time period? Where did it begin?)
3) Describe central concepts of the model.
4) Explain the value and role of positive relationshipsand supportive interactionsas the foundation of their work with young children.
5) Demonstrate how the model addresses intentional teaching, curriculum, instruction, and assessment for today's young children? What are the effective strategies and tools for early education? If appropriate and/or relevant, include appropriate uses of technology.
6) Explain the roles of the parent, family and community (e.g., parents as teachers, family engagement, community partners).
7) Present research that demonstrates the effectiveness of the model.
Option 3: Diversity and Cultural Competence
Research and explain the critical importance of being a "culturally responsive teacher". Include the following in your paper:
1) Define central concepts underlying diversity and cultural competence.
2) Identify best practices for fostering cultural awarenessand appreciation in early childhood programs. Include the value of positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation of their work with young children.
3) Critique and explain how to infuse multicultural content into programs, curriculum,and daily learning experiences.
4) Describe effective strategies and tools for early education, include appropriate uses of technology.
5) Describe two strategies for effectively involving parents, familiesand the community.
Option 4: Inclusion
Research the definition, history, benefits and challenges of inclusion. Choose one population of children: special needs, English Language Learners, gifted and talented. Include the following in your paper:
1) State your chosen population and the reasons for your selection.
2) Define central concepts underlying inclusionand IDEA. Demonstrate how IDEA affects inclusion of your chosen population.
State federal guidelines.
3) Describe different inclusion models including advantagesand disadvantages. Include the value of positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation of their work with young children.
4) Describe effective strategies and tools for early education, include appropriate uses of technology.
For example: For children with special needs, present different disabilitiesand explain how you would use an inclusion model to supporttheir needs.
What are the federal guidelines to make a facility "accessible" to those with disabilities?
5) Specify at least two concrete ways you would partner with families to best supporttheir children's optimal learning, growth and success.
6) Present research from two sources about your chosen population with regard to a critical perspective related to early education.
Reminder: Be sure to read the criteria by which your Research Paper will be evaluated. Review the criteria before you research, while you research and write, while you revise your initial draft using your instructor's feedback, and before you submit your research paper.