CRITICALLY EVALUATE A RANGE OF RESEARCH METHODS (TO GENERATE QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE DATA)

Critically evaluate a range of research methods (to generate qualitative and quantitative data)



Critically evaluate a range of research methods (to generate qualitative and quantitative data)

Introduction

In research there has been a lot of debate surrounding the choice of quantitative or qualitative research methods. Quantitative methods allow more precise measurements, while qualitative methods allow a more direct examination of the motivations, attitudes and behaviours of individuals. Currently both methods, regardless of the different paradigms and positions that are depart-positivist and interpretive, are considered compatible and valid in the investigation of sociological problems.

Discussion

Early childhood education refers to a range of programs and services that support young children within the context of their family. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), considered to be the leading organization in the education of young children, identifies birth through 8 as the age span that comprises early childhood. From Friedrich Froebel's “child's garden” of the late 19th century, which encouraged freedom and play; to Maria Montessori's theory grounded in respect for young children and what she coined as their “absorbent minds”; two programs today that are based on “developmentally appropriate practices,” early childhood education has taken many forms. The goals and purpose of the field have changed throughout history to reflect the concerns of the society at the time. Today, the importance of quality early childhood education has been recognized as a critical element in closing the racial and economic achievement gap and also as a route to educating more effectively in the global economy of the 21st century. This entry explores some of the critical reform issues associated with the field of early childhood, including the shift to Early Care and Education; the role of brain development research; the impact of quality on child outcomes; and the role of Head Start as an institution in programs for young children.

Early Care and Education

Attitudes and perceptions about early childhood education are often emotionally charged and tend to mirror the state of the family in British culture. Until recently, the types of programs serving young children were unofficially assigned status labels as well as stigmas. Preschool, for example, often received the highest status as it tended to serve a more affluent and mainstream population. Head Start tended to bear the stigma of being associated with poverty even though it had the highest degree of oversight, was backed by several longitudinal research studies, and had the most comprehensive programming. Day care was stigmatized by the media as horror stories of unfit caregivers were made public. As women went to work outside of the home in growing numbers during the 1970s and 1980s, day care emerged as a necessity. Mothers who used day care were commonly the target of criticism by mothers who stayed home with their children. Attitudes about early childhood education were strong but were often not based in reality.

Today, researchers have come to understand that regardless of where children spend their time between birth and age 8, all children deserve responsive care and quality experiences that serve as ...