Closing Session

More than Workshops, Websites, and Synthesis: Busting Assumptions and Building Research–Practice Connections

The gap between research and practice is long standing—practitioners don’t always do what the research says and researchers don’t always study what matters in practice. In this session, Pamela J. Winton challenges assumptions made by researchers that impede research-practice connections and advances in the early childhood education field. In addition, she highlights a number of program features that reduce effective implementation of research, including administrative supports, organizational structures, policies, resources, professional development opportunities, and evaluation and data systems (Fixsen, et al, 2005). Finally, she reviews a number of traditional approaches to teacher training that should be updated. Dr. Winton suggests strategies for building stronger connections between research and practice. These strategies include embracing the evidence-based practice movement, employing new technologies and learning strategies such as online professional discussion groups, abolishing ‘workshops’ and instead utilizing shared inquiry and “learning around” practices, and tapping into new models for engaging adult learners. The use of such strategies can have important implications for the improvement of early education for young children.

Pam Winton (PDF, 2.37m)