Contemporary Perspectives on Research in Assessment and Evaluation in Early Childhood Education

This comprehensive examination of early childhood assessment provides essential insights for educators, administrators, and policymakers navigating the complex landscape of evaluating young children's educational programs. The book thoroughly explores the rapid development of assessment practices in recent decades, grounding its analysis in foundational documents like the NAEYC and NAECS/SDE position statement on early childhood curriculum. Readers will find practical guidance on implementing effective evaluation methods that respect children's developmental stages while meeting professional standards.

What sets this work apart is its balanced approach to addressing the needs of diverse stakeholders—from researchers designing studies to parents understanding assessment reports. The author successfully bridges theoretical frameworks with real-world application, making complex assessment concepts accessible without oversimplifying the challenges. Educational professionals seeking to improve their program evaluation practices will find this an indispensable resource that thoughtfully examines both the purpose and practice of early childhood assessment.