A tool for determining the quality and diversity of practica sites.

Practice-based assignments bridge coursework and field experiences, but it can be challenging to design assignments that work for the wide variety of community college field placements. This webinar will share tips for structuring practice-based assignments, helping students know what to expect, designing rubrics, grading efficiently, and overcoming resistance. Presenter: Kathleen Artman Meeker, University of Washington

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an evidence-based set of ideas and practices that can help early childhood and early childhood special educators to more effectively support the individual learning needs of children. While some faculty members include UDL examples for how to support children with disabilities, this webinar will emphasize how these practices can also support children who are dual language learners, children who are new to a setting, and children who have experienced stress or trauma. Content will include an overview of the components of UDL, share examples of how UDL content could be incorporated in courses or presentations on different topics, and provide resources for learning about or incorporating UDL examples.

The “Word Gap” has come to symbolize the gulf that can separate very young children who have rich opportunities for positive early learning experiences from those who do not. Science reveals that early language and literacy skills are important predictors of later success in school—and that as a group, children in families of lower socioeconomic means have fewer skills and know far fewer words than their more privileged peers. ZERO TO THREE has compiled as set of resources, in English and Spanish, to will help families, professionals, and policymakers understand the importance of supporting early language and literacy and how best to do so.

This short article reviews a study that highlights the importance of children’s home environment and its impact on later literacy success.