Week 8

I have learned a lot about research in this course.  I never realized the number of steps that needed to be followed in order to collect reliable data.  It makes me appreciate the time researchers take to come up with their papers.

This course has been difficult for me.  I have not done anything with research in a long time so the readings as well as understanding how to apply the information has been difficult.   I have taken the comments from the professor and tried learning from my mistakes. 

I wouldn’t say my perception of an early childhood professional has changed from what I have learned in this class.  I still believe it is a hard but worthwhile professional that unfortunately many people don’t take seriously.  So because of this reason, it is important for researchers to continue to investigate the early childhood field.

Week 5 - Looking at an International Website

The website I looked at was Early Childhood Australia, http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/.  Their mission statement is the Early Childhood Australia will advocate to ensure quality, social justice and equity in all issues relating to the education and care of children from birth to eight years. Some of the current research is on respecting diversity, learning and teaching through play, bullying, and portfolios.  It is amazing that the United States and Australia have similar research topics.  Early childhood across the world have many common areas. 

                         

As you look over the website, you might think you are looking at a website from the United States.  Most of the issues are the same as here.  I really found it interesting that even in Australia they are doing a Quality Assurance (QA) for the child care programs.  Right now, NYS is in the process of all the Child Care Resources and Referral becoming QUALITY ASSURED.

Resources

www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au