Community-Based Research on Early Childhood Policy and Practice

This course provides hands-on experience consulting with early childhood organizations, researching relevant topics, and communicating findings with clear, actionable policy recommendations. Small groups of graduate and advanced undergraduate students will partner with a community organization to answer real-world questions through research and policy analysis. Topics will be proposed by the organization, with students responsible for the approach. Methodology may include literature review, policy review, and collection/analysis of quantitative or qualitative data. Final products will include both written and oral presentation of findings and recommendations tailored to the client.