Objective: Apply fundamental theories and concepts by focusing on one key aspect of
early childhood education. NAEYC Standards: 2a, 4a, 4b, 5b, 6d
credible sources 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 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 no fewer than three
   different resources. At least one resource that you identify is not referenced in the
   course. 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 that is not referenced in the course. Along with conducting
   research in sources provided in the course, use the Post Library CHS/ECE general
   research guide provided in the course.
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: Begin research; submit list of three researched resources with a brief summary
   (annotation) for each one. (15 points)
   Unit 3-6: Actively research the topic and draft the paper. Other resources, in addition to
   the three resources identified in Unit 3, may need to be used in order to meet all
   CHS111 – Foundations of
   Early Childhood Education
   Research Paper
   the criteria stated in the option you chose.
   Unit 6: Optional: Submit written draft to the Safe Assign link provided in the course to
   gain feedback on whether you have appropriately quoted, paraphrased and
   cited your secondary research sources. The written draft will not be reviewed
   by the instructor.
   Unit 7: Review and utilize feedback on initial draft received from Safe Assign. Finalize
   and submit the written research paper by Sunday, 11:59 (EST). (100 points)
4. Utilize the “Evaluation Rubric” for the Research Paper.
   Throughout the seven 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, and before you submit your research paper.
   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 (name, time period, place of birth/death, etc.).
   3) Write a detailed account of the historical figure’s significant contribution(s) and 
   central concepts of the theory. Identify at least two publications authored by the
   person. (5b)
   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. (4a)
   5) Explain the historical figure’s effective strategies and tools for early education. If
   appropriate and/or relevant, include appropriate uses of technology. (4b)
   6) Explain the theorist’s view on the role of parents, families and community in
   children’s development and learning. (2a)
   7) Describe the scope of his/her influence on early education for today’s children. State
   your opinions and explain why. (6d)
   (If the information required above is not found within the three resources you identified
   in Unit 3, then use additional resources.)
   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. (5b)
   4) Explain the value and role of positive relationships and supportive interactions as the
   foundation of the model’s support of young children. (4a)
   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. (4b)
   6) Explain the roles of the parent, family and community (e.g., parents as teachers,
   family engagement, community partners). (2a)
   7) Cite and discuss research that demonstrates the effectiveness of the model. (If this
   information is not found within the three resources you identified in Unit 3, then use
   additional resources.). (6d)
   Option 3: Diversity and Cultural Competence
   Research and explain the critical importance of being a “culturally responsive
   teacher”. (If the information required below is not found within the three
   resources you identified in Unit 3, then use additional resources.). Include the
   following in your paper:
   1) Define central concepts underlying diversity and cultural competence. (5b)
   2) Identify best practices for fostering cultural awareness and appreciation in early
   childhood programs. Include the value of positive relationships and supportive
   interactions as the foundation for cultural competence. (4a)
   3) Critique and explain how to infuse multicultural content into programs, curriculum, and
   daily learning experiences. (6d)
   4) Describe effective strategies and tools for early education, include appropriate uses of
   technology. (4b)
   5) Describe two strategies for effectively involving parents, families and the community.
   (2a)
   Option 4: Inclusion 
   7/11/2020 Order 322491214
   https://admin.writerbay.com/orders_available?subcom=detailed&id=322491214 4/5
   Research the definition, history, benefits, and challenges of inclusion. Choose one
   population of children: special needs, English Language Learners, or gifted and
   talented.
   Include the following in your paper (If the information required below is not found within
   the three resources you identified in Unit 3, then use additional resources):
   1) State your chosen population and the reasons for your selection.
   2) Define central concepts underlying inclusion and IDEA. Demonstrate how IDEA
   affects inclusion of your chosen population. (5b)
   State the federal guidelines mandated within IDEA.
   3) Describe different inclusion models including advantages and disadvantages. Include
   the value of positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation of an
   inclusion model. (4a)
   4) Describe effective strategies and tools for early education, include appropriate uses of
   technology. (4b)
   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, as an educator, would partner with families to
   best support children’s optimal learning, growth and success. (2a)
   6) Cite and discuss research from two sources about your chosen population with regard
   to a critical perspective related to early education. (If this information is not found
   within the three resources you identified in Unit 3, then use additional resources.). (6d)
   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.

Sample Solution