Article 8

Title:

The Relations of Observed Pre-K Classroom Quality Profiles to Children's Achievement and Social Competence

Link: 

http://www.informaworld.com/openurl?genre=article&id=doi:10.1080/10409280802581284

Abstract:

This research discusses the benefits for 4 and 5-year olds that participate in pre-k programs.  The data suggests that students will not only benefit academically but socially as well.  In order to analyze the effect of teacher/child interactions, various profiles were created to better document student growth.  More specifically, the data collected focuses on the positive outcomes and the benefits that emotional support, organizational support, and Instructional support has in regards to student achievement.

Reflection:

Because I am an early literacy instructor, I found this journal inspiring in the fact that it supports the benefits of pre-k programs.  The data provided not only made me assess many components that contribute to increased student achievement, but it also gave me some great ideas on aspects I need to be directed more attention. 

References: 

Timothy W. Curby, J. L.-C. (2009). The relations of observed pre-k classroom quality profiles to children’s achievement and social competence . Early Education and Development , 346-372.

Article 7

Title:

Achievement Gaps: An Examination of Differences in Student Achievement and Growth. The Full Report

 Link: 
https://ezproxy.western.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=eric&AN=ED498429&site=eds-live

Abstract:

This article explores the many variables that may come into play when looking at student growth and achievement.  It not only examines the gap amongst students of varying ethnicities, but it also looks at other contributing factors such as economic standing and time frames. The report brings to light that reducing the achievement gap will be no easy feat and while the research may elaborate on the cause of the gap it does not directly provide solutions. It suggests that the focus should be dispersed among all students, not just the low performers and as the gap may be reduced it seems in order to close the gap a public backing may be necessary.

Reflection:

        This report opened my eyes to the varying aspects one must consider when looking at achievement gaps. It gave me not only a better understanding of achievement levels, but also how growth and progress come into play. It was interesting to see that it not only addresses lower performing students but it also talks about how higher achieving students may be affected by certain contributing factors as well. 

References: 

McCall, M. S., Hauser, C., Cronin, J., Kingsbury, G. G., Houser, R., & Northwest Evaluation Association, O. (2006). Achievement gaps: An examination of differences in student achievement and growth. The Full Report.Northwest Evaluation Association,