This mixed methods study explored the influence that the use of implementation frameworks and the deployment of implementation drivers may have on collective efficacy in early learning and elementary settings. It was hypothesized that such a relationship could foster high fidelity implementation of high leverage practices that would support the…

The purpose of this study was to identify the self-efficacy of early childhood teachers toward STEM subjects as measured on the Teacher Efficacy and Attitudes toward STEM Survey (T-STEM) and to explore factors that influence this confidence. Methodology. A quantitative approach with two open-ended items was selected for this study, seeking to…

Kindergarten teachers in one large district in Arkansas are inconsistently implementing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)-integrated lessons into their curriculum despite a systemic plan for increasing equitable access to high-quality STEM-focused education for all students by the state department of education. While…

Effective early science learning opportunities are critical for young children to build a solid foundation for subsequent development of concepts, as well as positive attitudes towards science (Eshach & Fried, 2005). However, these opportunities are often lacking in typical preschool classrooms (Connor, Morrison, & Slominski, 2006; Early…

Twenty-first-century teachers enter the classroom amid ever-growing demands and increasingly complex learning environments. Because of this, it is critical that teachers develop the knowledge and skills needed to be effective classroom problem-solvers. As is the case with student problem-solving, metacognition has been shown to be helpful in…

As potential discipline leaders, college professors desire to establish themselves as viable and credible assets to their programs. In this quest, the college music program must become relevant to the pre-service teacher so the K-20 classroom can flourish. Are music programs at Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) preparing well-trained music…

Preschool programs, as they have rapidly become more academically oriented, are squarely centered in a debate about developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood. Nature-based preschools are increasingly embraced by parents as a healthy choice compared to more academically focused programs. The Whitaker Preparatory School, a pseudonym,…

The impact of high quality teaching on student achievement has been well documented; however, there remains a need to more fully understand the factors that predict effective teaching. This study utilized Fenstermacher and Richardson's (2005) model of teacher quality to investigate teacher effectiveness within a preschool special education…