Annotation from the Connection Collection
You are viewing a record from the Connection Collection, a searchable annotated bibliography database. It links you with research-based information that you can use to connect schools, families, and communities.
| Title: | Eager to learn: Educating our preschoolers |
| Author: | Bowman, B., Donovan, M., & Burns, M. |
| Year: | 2001 |
| Resource Type: | Book |
| Publication Information: | Washington, DC: National Academy Press. |
| Connection: | School-Family-Community |
| Education Level: | Early Childhood/Pre-K |
| Literature type: | Literature Review |
Annotation:
This book-length literature review results from a three-year study during which 17 experts appointed by the National Research Council worked to synthesize the theory, research, and evaluation literature related to early childhood education. The review addresses both quantitative and qualitative research in education and the behavioral and social sciences. Addressing children ages 2 to 5, the review focuses on education outside the home, although the authors note that "it is important to underscore the point that children's learning and development are strongly influenced by myriad family factors, including parental interaction styles and family aspirations and expectations for achievement" (p. 4). The report includes an overview of current understandings of children's cognitive development and focuses in-depth on the features of quality early care and education programs. It includes extensive recommendations for professional development, educational materials, policy, and public participation, as well as for future research. There is a limited focus on families and communities; however, the report recommends that "Early childhood programs and centers should build alliances with parents to cultivate complementary and mutually reinforcing environments for young children at home and at the center" (p. 19).
Suggested Citation Style:
- Bowman, B., Donovan, M., & Burns, M. (2001). Eager to learn: Educating our preschoolers. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.