About this Course

Improvements in early childhood education practices and policies depend on sound, research-based recommendations. This course focuses on the kinds of knowledge, ways of knowing and modes of inquiry relevant to working with young children and their families. You'll develop a basic understanding of research methods through an in-depth look at key studies in early care and education (ECE). You'll learn how to find, read, understand and critically evaluate ECE research. You'll also read, discuss and write about academic studies in order to become familiar with fundamentals of academic research.

Designed For

Students pursuing careers in early care and education who want to develop skills in and practice finding, reading and summarizing academic research.

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What You’ll Learn

• How to identify and describe research design, sampling, data collection and interpretation, and application of results
• Key research questions and methodologies in ECE
• How to summarize and evaluate ECE research literature
• Techniques for showing how research, policy and practice are connected in ECE
• How to compare and describe the purposes and processes of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies