Although there have been cases where research has harmed its
participants, there are many instances where early childhood research has
proved beneficial to the children involved in it. Allen-Hughes (2013) conducted a study in
which she explored the outcomes of conducting Morning Meetings in elementary
school classrooms. Morning Meetings
offer a time for social interaction and practice of social skills for young
children at school (Allen-Hughes, 2013).
Allen-Hughes (2013) reported her findings as follows:
The work accomplished during
Morning Meetings positively supports both social and academic settings in the
classroom. Through Morning Meeting, students are able to practice skills that
help support their work during academic periods in the classroom. These skills
support the students in becoming more independent and efficient, able to solve
problems on their own, thinking critically, respecting fellow students and
teachers, and reacting to situations and people with empathy and kindness.
There is a shift in the classroom environment due to these skills. The
environment becomes a safe, trustworthy and supportive space where students can
create a community of learners together, focusing on and practicing important
social skills that are preparing them for the 21st century world that awaits
them after school. (pp. 33)
This study found numerous benefits for its subjects and can
be used to promote implementation of intentional time for social interaction
and social skills practice at school.
This case is a good example of how research can impact young children in
positive ways!
References
Allen-Hughes, L. (2013). The social benefits of the morning
meeting: Creating a space for social and character education in the classroom. Online Submission. Retrieved from http://www.eric.ed.gov/PDFS/ED541211.pdf
Hi Parker,
ReplyDeleteThis is a great study. I work with young kids from ages one to three and it is amazing how great the morning goes when they have free time. They have breakfast with each other then they can choose an activity to play together before we start our day. During that time the children are playing smiling and getting comfort. I agree with this study because morning meetings always a way to get comfortable and start your day on a positive note no matter how old you are.
Hi Parker
ReplyDeleteThank you for the great study. I use to do Morning Meetings when I taught 4th/5th grade. It's amazing how much the classroom environment changed for the better when I started Morning Meetings. The young people gained self confidence and social skills were improved. Now that I teach PreK I do a modified version of Morning Meetings with them during circle time. It's usually something as simple as playing a game to improve their social skills. Thanks for the wonderful post!
Jodi
Thank you for sharing this study. My prekindergarten class has just begin using creative curriculum and morning meetings is a part of the curriculum. I will be sharing this resource with the prekindergarten teacher. It is so important for use to change our mind state and make every moment intentional to equip our children with the social skills and confidence to be in control of their learning environments.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed Reading your post Parker! I especially agree with you when you stated that research can impact a Young child's life in a positive way! I am a firm believer of this.
ReplyDelete