02 Feb 1) State your chosen population

U8 Final Research Paper Assignment Due (Submit here)

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 means you understand the underlying theories and fundamental concepts and that you can put them to practice!

This research project runs Units 1 through 8. Thus you have eight units (weeks) to complete it. While this project is large, it is definitely manageable as the steps and timeline have been mapped for you. Your final product will be a paper that is 5-7 double- spaced, APA formatted pages with a Title Page and References Page (these are not included in the page count).

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.

3. Complete all phases according to the given timeline.

Unit 1: Review the choice of topics in the list below.

Unit 2: Decide and submit one topic that you would like to explore in depth. (5 points)

Unit 3: Submit list of three researched resources (15 points; see Researched Resources List grading criteria/rubric).

Units 3-6: Actively research the topic and draft the project.

Unit 6: Submit draft of written research paper (This is an optional step to receive instructor review and a plagiarism check).

Unit 8: Review and utilize Instructor’s feedback on initial draft. Finalize and submit the written research paper by midnight Sunday. (100 points; see Research Paper Assignment grading criteria/rubric).

4. Utilize the “Evaluation Rubric” for the Research Paper.

Throughout the eight weeks, be sure to read the rubric criteria, by which your project will be evaluated: 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.

Research Topics:

Option 1: Historical Figure

From the list below, choose and research one historical figure that had great influence on early childhood education. Provide biographical information (name, time period, place of birth/death, etc.). Write a detailed account of the person’s significant contribution(s) including theories and publications. Describe the scope of his/her influence on today’s children. State your opinions and explain why.

a) Maria Montessori

b) Friedrich Frobel

c) Jean Piaget

d) Erik Erikson

d) Lev Vygotsky

e) Abraham Maslow

f) T. Berry Brazelton

g) Magda Gerber

Option 2: Early Childhood Model

Research one early childhood model from the list below. Provide background information (e.g., who started it? What was the time period? Where did it begin?) Describe the model in detail. How does the model address intentional teaching, curriculum, instruction, and assessment for today’s young children? Share any research that demonstrates the effectiveness of the model.

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

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 diversity and cultural competence.

2) Identify best practices for fostering cultural awareness and appreciation in early childhood programs.

3) Explain how to infuse multicultural content into programs, curriculum, and daily learning experiences.

4) Describe two strategies for effectively involving parents, families and 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 inclusion and IDEA. Demonstrate how IDEA affects inclusion of your chosen population. State federal guidelines.

3) Describe different inclusion models including advantages and disadvantages.

4) For example: For children with special needs, present different disabilities and explain how you would use an inclusion model to support their 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 support their children’s optimal learning, growth and success.

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.