Results of a study of literacy achievement data covering 1194 children turning six between January and August 2000, from 54 schools in the lower part of the North Island, show gender and ethnicity differences in all the areas tested by the schools. While the range for all ethnic groups was ...

This article explores the impact of book bags containing non-fiction books, related artefacts and activity sheets on the reading behaviour and attitudes of reluctant and struggling boy readers. Reprinted from Topic, Issue 25, Spring 2001.

One of the most obvious changes brought about by the curriculum reforms of the 1990s was the inclusion of technology as one of the seven areas of learning. The perceived impact of this ‘new’ area is explored, drawing on the curriculum-related findings of a study of the impact of education ...

This article sets out to ask questions about the desire for dialogue across cultural groups – a desire which is strongly held by many Pakeha in education. Pakeha educationist Alison Jones, drawing on her experience of teaching Maori, Pacific and Pakeha students at university level, argues that behind the benevolent ...

As the ‘new-look’ set: Research Information for Teachers enters its second year, NZCER would like to thank all subscribers for their loyalty and positive feedback. We would also like to thank the Specialist Education Service, and in particular Lewis Rivers, for their support, help, and advice during 2000. Although this ...

The latest findings from the longitudinal Competent Children project show that early childhood education continues to have important bearings on children’s performance at age 10. Early childhood education quality is particularly important.

One challenge posed by the development of Te Whāriki is to ensure that assessment and evaluation processes associated with its implementation are in the interests of children and their families. The approach we developed and trialled is closely connected to the strands of Te Whāriki, and starts with the ...

Literacy and numeracy have been receiving increasing attention in New Zealand in recent years. This paper discusses how early childhood practitioners might respond to current initiatives in the area of numeracy. Suggestions are offered for fostering early numeracy in ways that are consistent with the early childhood curriculum Te Whāriki ...

Five case studies of starting childcare show that this experience is a complex one for all involved: children, mothers, and teachers. This article presents elements of the experiences of the participants in the study.

When young children move from one educational setting to another, it is important to understand the context of their prior experiences. Most children starting primary school have already experienced transition. Early childhood transitions include starting at an early childhood service or centre, and moving sequentially or concurrently from one early ...