Handbook of STEM Education in Early Childhood

This Handbook offers a comprehensive overview of STEM education in early childhood, featuring contributions from global experts. Structured around themes and critical questions emerging from research in early childhood STEM, the Handbook integrates theoretical perspectives with evidence-based practices. Chapters explore foundational theories, pedagogical aims, considerations for working with young children, teaching practices, learning environments, and professional development. Making a much needed contribution to the literature, this volume balances conceptual clarity with applied insights, serving as a timely, authoritative resource for early childhood STEM educators, researchers, and policymakers.

Supports early childhood educators, researchers, and policymakers Presents foundational concepts in early childhood STEM education Balances theoretical discussions with practical insights

Autorentext

Christine D. Tippett is a full professor and graduate program director in the Faculty of Education at the University of Ottawa, Canada. An engineer before she became a teacher, her research focuses on early childhood STEM, visual representations, and science educator development. She presents internationally and has co-edited three Springer books with Dr. Milford.

Todd M. Milford is an associate professor and acting dean in the Faculty of Education at the University of Victoria, Canada. His research portfolio focuses on early childhood STEM education, educational assessment, and Pre-K12 learning systems. He presents globally and consults on education policy. He's co-edited three Springer books with Dr. Tippett.

Klappentext

This Handbook offers a comprehensive overview of STEM education in early childhood, featuring contributions from global experts. Structured around themes and critical questions emerging from research in early childhood STEM, the Handbook integrates theoretical perspectives with evidence-based practices. Chapters explore foundational theories, pedagogical aims, considerations for working with young children, teaching practices, learning environments, and professional development. Making a much needed contribution to the literature, this volume balances conceptual clarity with applied insights, serving as a timely, authoritative resource for early childhood STEM educators, researchers, and policymakers.

Inhalt

Young children's participation in STEM research.- Informal early childhood STEM learning environments.- STEM in early childhood.- 21st century compentencies in early childhood STEM education.- Supporting educators and teachers with early childhood STEM education.- Culturally responsive STEM education.- Assessment for, of, and as learning in early childhood STEM.- Evaluating open educational resources for early childhood STEM.- Responsive teaching in early childhood STEM education.- Evidence use in early childhood STEM education.- Parental involvement in early childhood STEM education.- Natural spaces and playgrounds as a context for early childhood STEM.- Oral language opportunities in early childhood STEM.- Working with children aged 0 to 3 years in STEM teaching and learning environments.