Our Current Work
Below you will find information about our current research projects and contact details for each. Just click on the title to find out more about that project.
Researching developmentally appropriate assessment methods and tools for measuring children's progress and learning outcomes in Early Years
Underpinned by Aistear and Síolta, this research investigates early learning assessment and evaluation practices in Early Years settings. The research seeks to identify current strengths and challenges and to devise actionable recommendations to enhance assessment and evaluation practices in early years settings through a review of Irish and international literature; and focus groups with early years educators and managers responsible for leading and implementing these practices. This research project is funded by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality.
For further information, please contact Linda at [email protected]
Learning together: Exploring children’s and childminders’ experiences of mixed-age communities in home-based settings
This participatory research with children and childminders explored their perspectives and experiences of mixed age groups in home-based settings. Our project is novel because research with children concerning their experiences in home-based settings is rare. Five childminders participated and facilitated the participation of 20 babies, toddlers and children. Their views contribute to understanding what quality pedagogical practice for mixed-age groups looks like in home settings. The research report concludes with implications for both practice and policy that could benefit children who attend both home and centre-based EY and SAC settings. This research project is funded by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality.
The full report is available here.
For further information, please contact Carmel Ward at [email protected].
Aistear and Síolta: Exploring childminders’ perspectives and application
This research sought to explore whether the principles of Aistear (2024) and Síolta (2017) are reflected in dimensions of childminders’ practice, in ways that may be intentional or unintentional, explicit or implicit, and particular to Childminding. It is hoped that the insights gained will be used to create and advocate for appropriate professional development and learning opportunities for childminders in Ireland’s changing landscape.
The full report is available here.
For further information, please contact Liz Kerrins at [email protected].
From Rhetoric to Reality: Investigating Irish Traveller children’s experiences of belonging in Early Childhood Education settings
Very little research has been undertaken in formal Early Childhood Education settings with young members of the Traveller community. This transformative action research with 23 Traveller children (2 to 5 years) and 6 preschool managers explores the extent to which Irish Early Childhood Education and Care frameworks are working for Traveller children and their families. Importantly, the research report illuminates this group of young Traveller children’s perspectives and experiences in their 4 preschools, through the lens of belonging. The report concludes with practice-based actions that could improve inclusive experiences for Traveller children and families in formal Early Childhood Education settings across Ireland.
This research project was funded by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality.
The full report is available here.
Our feedback to the children who participated is available here.
For further information, please contact Carmel Ward at [email protected].
