Research
In February of 2007 we lost a dear friend, colleague, child advocate, founding board member, benefactor and the second president of the California Kindergarten Association, Dr. Violet Robinson. Dr. Robinson was a firm believer in the importance of research. She often stated that as a professional, statewide association we had a responsibility to provide our members with authentic research about the education and development of young children.
One of Dr. Robinson’s major contributions to the association and to its members was that of editor of the association’s journal. Entitled, Kindergarten Education: Theory, Research and Practice it was published from 1996 to 2001. Unfortunately, several years ago we had to discontinue the publishing of the journal due to a major decrease in revenue and the increased cost of publishing such a document. As a result of rethinking how we can disseminate such information in an every changing technological era, the Board of Directors of CKA is moving to provide its members once again with original research as an honor to Dr. Vi Robinson. We hope that such research will lead to discussion, reflection and professional growth for all that read it.
Do Your Own Classroom Research!
Collage-Making: a Medium to Unleash Children’s Creativity
Isauro Michael Escamilla April 2011 Mr. Escamilla, a preschool teacher in the San Francisco USD, participates in a Teacher Research Inquiry Group at San Francisco State University. His engaging research on a particular art medium help us all to see how young children learn, how to build on children’s interests, and how to use an art project to document their growth and development. Many photos draw us into the children’s projects. His work helps us realize that preschoolers and kindergarteners are more similar than they are...
read moreKindergarten Teachers’ Perceptions of Kindergarten Readiness
Nancy L. Cappelloni, Ed.D. March 2011 Ms. Cappelloni’s research has resulted in a new conceptualization of readiness that decision-makers and educators can use to redefine policies, include the whole children’s development and plan for optimal transition practices for children and families. Her research builds on that of the National Education Goals Panel. A Study Guide is offered to help educators examine their teaching practices and improve curriculum and instruction. Kindergarten Teachers’ Perceptions of...
read moreStorytelling, the Cornerstone of Literacy
Debra Weller January 2009 Storytelling is an ancient tool and communication skill that is validated with current brain research. It is a viable component of an effective literacy program. This research explains the importance of storytelling in the early childhood classroom, the supporting research, implications for literacy achievement, how to become an effective storyteller, and children as storytellers. Storytelling, the Cornerstone of...
read moreDefining Kindergarten Education in an Era of Accountability
Jennifer Lin Russell January 2008 Jennifer Lin Russell’s research addresses whether kindergarten is becoming more academically focused. It also offers insight on the relationship between developmentally appropriate practice, student achievement, and student motivation. She offers implications for full-day kindergarten and how the California Kindergarten Association may assist teachers in their efforts to provide a balanced instructional approach. Defining Kindergarten Education in an Era of...
read moreOur 31st Annual Conference
We are thrilled to announce that our 31st conference in January, was a huge success! We are so thankful to Jim Gill, Peggy Campbell Rush and all of our great presenters who made it a fabulous time. It was wonderful to see so many of you there! We hope you're planning to join us in 2014!
ART Really Teaches
