Article1999

Defining and Assessing Early Childhood Program Quality

107 citations0/0 files storedThe Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science

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Early Childhood Education and Development Education Methods and Practices Education Systems and Policies

Abstract

In the United States, there is a definition of quality of early care and education (ECE) programs that is widely accepted in the early childhood profession. It emphasizes a child-centered approach to raising children, with caring adults who are kind and gentle rather than restrictive and harsh and who protect children's health and safety, while providing a wealth of experiences that lead to learning through play. According to the definition, individuality and creativity are encouraged rather than conformity. This definition is often criticized by those with differing perspectives, but in general, it appears to be valid for those who value the aspects of development that are associated with success in the current mainstream American educational system and society. In this article, the content, rationale, and criticisms of that definition of quality are presented. Methods used in its assessment, and information regarding its validity, are explained.

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References

1987Developmentally appropriate practice in early childhood programs serving children from birth through age 8 2016National Association for the Education of Young Children 1999Early childhood environment rating scale 1998Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale. Revised Edition.1989Caregivers in day-care centers: Does training matter?1996Characteristics of infant child care: Factors contributing to positive caregiving 1997The prediction of process quality from structural features of child care 1994Maternal, Teacher, and Child Care History Correlates of Children's Relationships with Peers

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