Assessment and Evaluation for Transformation in Early Childhood establishes a new, democratic and participatory approach to assessment and evaluation in early childhood. By analysing the practice of assessment and evaluation within early childhood pedagogy, it provides a clear theoretical and methodological basis for this approach and a set of practical techniques for assessment and evaluation. Structured into three parts - context and principles, approaches and techniques and case studies, the authors show how documentation and portfolios can be an ethical mode of conducting assessment and evaluation. The third part of the text provides educational snapshots of countries that use a participatory approach to learning and teaching, and which include the pedagogical dimension of assessment and evaluation. Each of the seven illustrative case studies from three different countries bring to life the theories, principles and techniques presented throughout the book. Key points explored include: * The nature and purpose of assessment and evaluation within a participatory pedagogy. *Participatory methods for assessment and evaluation. *The search for a holistic approach to evaluation *Pedagogic documentation: uncovering solidary learning. * Ethical principles for holistic pedagogic evaluation This book is a crucial read for anyone working in early childhood education who wishes to learn more about professional, practice and policy development and all those interested in the pedagogical dimensions of assessment and evaluation.

Assessment and Evaluation for Transformation in Early Childhood establishes a new, democratic and participatory approach to assessment and evaluation in early childhood. By analysing the practice of assessment and evaluation within early childhood pedagogy, it provides a clear theoretical and methodological basis for this approach and a set of practical techniques for assessment and evaluation. Structured into three parts - context and principles, approaches and techniques and case studies, the authors show how documentation and portfolios can be an ethical mode of conducting assessment and evaluation. The third part of the text provides educational snapshots of countries that use a participatory approach to learning and teaching, and which include the pedagogical dimension of assessment and evaluation. Each of the seven illustrative case studies from three different countries bring to life the theories, principles and techniques presented throughout the book. Key points explored include: * The nature and purpose of assessment and evaluation within a participatory pedagogy. *Participatory methods for assessment and evaluation. *The search for a holistic approach to evaluation *Pedagogic documentation: uncovering solidary learning. * Ethical principles for holistic pedagogic evaluation This book is a crucial read for anyone working in early childhood education who wishes to learn more about professional, practice and policy development and all those interested in the pedagogical dimensions of assessment and evaluation.

Having a good grasp of the theories of child development and how these translate into practice can make a positive difference to how you understand babies and children and the ways in which you can help them learn. This approachable guide offers easy access to a wide range of concepts, as well as classic and current theories, about how babies and children learn. Each chapter offers clear guidance on how to recognise the theory in action and suggests ways to test these ideas out in early years settings, supporting the development of reflective practice. Case studies are included throughout, along with questions to guide thinking and encourage readers to develop their practice. Summaries conclude each chapter offering a quick reference of the theory examined and the benefits of applying it to practice. Early Childhood Theories and Contemporary Issues is an essential guide for all those looking to develop and enhance their practice in supporting child development within the early years.

In this book, the authors discuss criteria and methodologies for evaluating and improving the quality of learning, and show how to evaluate practice and create action plans for improvement. They present a variety of case studies, including: a family centre; LEA nursery unit; a workplace nursery, an LEA nursery class; an inner-city reception class in a primary school; private day nurseries; and a social services day nursery. Each example is accompanied by a set of questions which highlight important features of the research process and suggest ways in which early years practitioners can examine and reflect on their own practice. This book draws on the experience of practitioners involved in the Effective Early Learning Research Project, developed to support early learning wherever young children are, whether in education, care, social services, health, voluntary sector, private sector, or state sector, from birth to 7 years. This book is essential reading for all early years practitioners, students, inspectors and trainers.