This book describes the use of data systems in early childhood settings (birth to eight years) for the purposes of assessment, evaluation and curriculum planning. It presents an international collection of research examining ways in which teachers and researchers have revisited notions of what constitutes effective assessment, revised ways in which they assess children's learning and development and use the knowledge gained for curriculum planning. It offers insights into contemporary research on how teachers and children are engaging with data systems as part of effective assessment and how these approaches influence practice. This book presents recent theorizing and examples of research which have investigated innovative approaches to assessment using data systems in early years settings. It represents both early childhood and junior primary contexts and includes research which focusses on teachers' perspectives and reflections on use of data systems. It also examines research which reflects on what children gain from being involved in these data systems.

There is considerable interest in diversity within education as our communities become increasingly globalised and the evidence mounts that diversity is in fact the norm within most educational contexts. This book aims to highlight some of the issues surrounding diversity that are apparent in all educational settings regardless of the international location. It seeks to un-pack the range and breadth of diversity that educators are likely to face. In particular, the chapters in this book review research on the potential issues, challenges and possible learning opportunities that may arise for educators as a result of working with diverse learners in diverse educational contexts. As teachers become increasingly accountable for the quality of learning experiences they are under pressure to ensure that discrimination is not only recognised, but addressed in order that all participants experience quality learning environments. Thus each chapter considers a different aspect of diversity, raises issues of concern, at times challenges conventional wisdom and offers insights as to how educators may address these issues in their own context. Each chapter includes an implications section for educators as they seek to provide all learners with environments in which they can engage in quality learning experiences and have equal opportunities.