While the implementation plan prepares students to apply their research to the problem or issue they have identified for their capstone project change proposal, the literature review enables students to map out and move into the active planning and development stages of the project.
A literature review analyzes how current research supports the PICOT, as well as identifies what is known and what is not known in the evidence. Students will use the PICOT question from the earlier "PICOT Question" template and information from the "Literature Evaluation Table" assignment to develop a review.
Using eight peer-reviewed articles, write 750-1,000-word review that includes the following sections:
Introduction section (including PICOT Question)
A summary of the purpose of the studies
A comparison of sample populations
Full Answer Section
Summary of the Purpose of the Studies
The eight peer-reviewed articles selected for this review share a common goal: to investigate the long-term effects of early childhood education on children's academic achievement. Specifically, these studies aim to:
- Quantify the impact: Measure the magnitude of the impact of ECE on academic outcomes.
- Identify critical factors: Determine the specific factors within ECE programs that contribute to positive outcomes.
- Examine disparities: Explore whether the benefits of ECE are equitable across different socioeconomic and demographic groups.
- Assess cost-effectiveness: Evaluate the economic costs and benefits of early childhood education programs.
Comparison of Sample Populations
The sample populations in these studies vary in terms of age, socioeconomic status, and geographic location. However, most studies focus on children from low-income families, as they are often at a higher risk of academic difficulties. Some studies include children from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, while others focus on specific subgroups, such as children with disabilities.
Key Considerations for Future Research:
- Long-term impacts: While many studies have examined the short-term and medium-term effects of ECE, further research is needed to assess the long-term impacts, such as college enrollment and career outcomes.
- Quality of ECE programs: It is essential to investigate the specific characteristics of high-quality ECE programs that lead to optimal outcomes.
- Dosage effects: The duration and intensity of ECE programs may influence the magnitude of the impact.
- Individual differences: Understanding individual differences in children's responsiveness to ECE can help tailor programs to meet specific needs.
By addressing these research gaps, we can gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which ECE improves academic achievement and develop more effective early childhood education policies and practices.
Sample Answer
Literature Review: The Impact of Early Childhood Education on Academic Achievement
Introduction
PICOT Question: In preschool children (P), how does early childhood education (I) compared to no formal education (C) impact academic achievement (O) at age 10 (T)?
Early childhood education (ECE) has been a subject of extensive research, with studies consistently demonstrating its positive impact on children's cognitive, social, and emotional development. This literature review aims to examine the existing evidence on the relationship between early childhood education and academic achievement, focusing on the cognitive benefits.