Sharing Web Resources

I have been greatly impressed with the amount of information that I have been receiving from the web resources to which I have subscribed.  In a day and age where every second is precious, I am thankful that I am able to keep up on the latest research research and data by simply opening my email.  Additionally, I visit several other websites and follow embedded links from relevant articles.  In this manner, I am able to keep myself connected to areas of Early Childhood that I am not otherwise exposed to in my daily work.

In my previous post, I mentioned NIEER (National Institute for Early Education Research; nieer.org; preschoolmatters.org).  Their blog, "Preschool matters...today!", provides detail regarding some of the most current early childhood topics in our nation.  They also provide a monthly newsletter relating to all topics in the field of Early Childhood with reference to research, policy implications, and practice.  I have had the opportunity to read updated opinions regarding play in the classroom, literacy, mathematics instruction, the relevance of scientific concepts, and general misconceptions in the profession.  I have been pleased that the content spans the United States and often includes a discussion of new political matters.

Most recently, I was provided with information regarding "The State of Preschool 2013: State Preschool Yearbook".  The article discussed trends among state funded  preschool programs in light of budget adjustments.  While there has been some increase in "per student" funding in the last year, programs and children are still suffering.  Noteworthy strides are being made toward increased funding and critical benchmarks being met, but NIEER has suggested that “If ever there were a time for leaders at the local, state, and national levels to unite in their efforts to provide high-quality preschool education to our next generation, this is it” (NIEER, 2014).

 Arne Duncan, U.S. Secretary of Education, called for just such participation on a media call discussing the Yearbook. “We just need Congress to catch up and pay attention to what is happening in the real world,” he said. Duncan added:

“Today, nationally, as the NIEER Yearbook shows, fewer than 30 percent of 4-year-olds are enrolled in state-funded preschool programs, and 10 states still do not offer it at all. Sadly, we’re 25th among industrialized countries in enrollment of 4-year-olds in early learning. If we’re going to lead in the global economy, we must do better – in countries like Germany and Japan, more than 95 percent of 4-year olds are enrolled in early childhood education. Quality early education can be a game-changer for the kids who need the most support.  It’s good for them and their families, and for our country’s long-term economic success.  Ultimately, it’s an investment in our collective future.” (NIEER, 2014)

Alongside the information I receive from NIEER, I also frequent the websites for PBS, Hatch, NPR, NAEYC, YC (Young Children) magazine, Let's Move!, and other STEM related resources.  I also often enjoy the articles presented in the resources for our coursework and local links provided to me through my memberships to museums and associations in my area.  

Thus far, the majority of the information I have researched related to the field of Early Childhood Education has been in a broad, pedagogical framework, or in a manner specific to my area of specialization or need.  I look forward to the contributions of others I follow, so that I may broaden my horizons to become more knowledgeable in my field of study.  I whole-heartedly enjoy learning from others and frequently feel more enriched in doing so.  I also anticipate learning about what is on the forefront of others' minds and which issues relate to them directly in their own work.  I have to admit that pursuing my Master's in Early Childhood has not only deepened my commitment to the field, but also afforded me the opportunity to gain perspective in relation to issues in other parts of my working world. 

I thank each and every colleague of mine for aiding me in this process!