Explain how your action research potential framework for influencing change and
improvement in education enhances your leadership skills and empowers you to make a
positive difference. Remember, ECE660 is a key course in influencing your ability to
foster change through action research.
- Discuss what inspires you to influence change as an early childhood education
professional and leader, by thinking back to the introduction discussion forum completed
in Week 1. Share any vision or mission you have for making a positive difference as a
leader in early childhood education.
Part 2: Program Reflection
- Discuss the ways that you have grown and developed in your leadership knowledge and
skills from the beginning of the program to now.
o If you transferred in credit and did not complete some or all of the courses prior to
taking this course, reflect on how you have grown from the beginning of this
course until now. You may also use your experience and knowledge from any
leadership program or courses you have worked on or completed previously.
Full Answer Section
- Developing Data-Driven Decision-Making: Action research emphasizes the collection and analysis of data to inform decision-making. This builds skills in data literacy and evidence-based practice, enabling leaders to make informed choices that benefit children and families.
- Fostering Collaboration and Empowerment: Action research often involves collaborative inquiry with colleagues, families, and community members. This cultivates teamwork, communication, and shared ownership, empowering others to participate in positive change.
- Enhancing Problem-Solving and Innovation: Action research provides a structured approach to identifying problems, developing solutions, and evaluating their effectiveness. This fosters creativity, innovation, and a proactive approach to addressing challenges.
- Building Advocacy Skills: By systematically documenting the impact of interventions, action research provides evidence to advocate for improved policies and practices.
Inspiration and Vision for Change:
My inspiration to influence change in ECE stems from a deep belief in the transformative power of early experiences. I envision a future where all children, regardless of their background, have access to high-quality, equitable, and developmentally appropriate ECE.
In my introductory discussion, I highlighted a strong desire to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that evidence-based strategies are effectively implemented in ECE settings. My mission is to:
- Advocate for policies that prioritize early childhood education.
- Empower educators to become reflective practitioners and leaders in their communities.
- Foster collaborative partnerships between families, educators, and community members.
- Promote culturally responsive and inclusive ECE practices.
Part 2: Program Reflection
Growth and Development in Leadership Knowledge and Skills:
Throughout this ECE leadership program, and particularly through ECE660, I have experienced significant growth in my leadership knowledge and skills.
- Enhanced Understanding of Leadership Theories and Models: I have gained a deeper understanding of various leadership theories, such as transformational leadership, distributed leadership, and servant leadership, and how they apply to ECE settings.
- Improved Skills in Data Analysis and Interpretation: I have developed the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data to inform decision-making and evaluate the impact of interventions.
- Strengthened Skills in Communication and Collaboration: I have improved my ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, facilitate collaborative partnerships, and build consensus.
- Increased Confidence in My Ability to Lead Change: I have gained confidence in my ability to identify problems, develop solutions, and implement positive change in ECE settings.
- Development of Action Research Skills: The action research process has given me a structured method to improving my own practice, and the practice of others.
- Increased understanding of advocacy: I have grown in my understanding of how to advocate for children, families, and early childhood professionals.
If I had transferred in credit, or for someone who did, the focus would be on the growth within the current course. The action research process itself is a large portion of growth, and the application of that process to the ECE field.
This program has equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become an effective leader in ECE and to make a lasting positive difference in the lives of young children.
Sample Answer
Part 1: Action Research and Leadership in ECE
Action Research Framework and Leadership Skills:
An action research framework in ECE is a powerful tool for fostering change and improvement. It enhances leadership skills by:
- Promoting Reflective Practice: Action research encourages educators to critically examine their practices, identify areas for improvement, and reflect on the impact of their interventions. This strengthens self-awareness and critical thinking, essential leadership qualities.