This paper reviews past research in the area of early childhood education, points out current realities, and suggests future possibilities for investigation. Description of past research draws on the yearbooks of the National Society for the Study of Education and such sources as the "Handbook of Research in Early Childhood Education," edited by Bernard Spodek. Changes in the focus of research are indicated, and the past research climate is characterized as optimistic although increasingly complex. It is suggested that, while research questions in the field abound, many impediments to the conduct of research now exist. Diversity and uniformity in the field are discussed in relationship to the conduct of research, and general problems of the social sciences in contemporary society are described. Discussion of future possibilities for researchers centers on the challenges of (1) finding research support, and (2) gaining access to programs and securing the confidence of teachers and parents. Also suggested are qualitatively oriented models for university-based research. Specific attention is given to a resource collaborator model emphasizing reciprocity between researchers and practitioners. (RH)