Tomorrow’s Experts in Early Childhood Studies Start Here
Faculty leaders are shaping tomorrow’s experts who will carry lessons learned today to inform and transform the future of early childhood studies. These emerging leaders in early childhood studies are receiving training and situated mentoring in recommended practices in early childhood research, policy and practice.
Early Childhood Education
The University of Florida College of Education has early childhood programs that are designed to meet the needs of traditional undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students, as well as working professionals who have a passion for working with young children and their families.
Postdoctoral
The Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies supports an interdisciplinary postdoctoral research training fellowship program to prepare them to conduct rigorous and relevant research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge, theory and methodology in the field of early childhood studies.
Doctoral
Doctoral students engage in a variety of unique research, training and applied experiences necessary to prepare them to become the next generation of leaders and scholars in the field. The PLECSIS program of studies includes coursework, seminars and mentoring, using an apprenticeship approach and situated community-based leadership experiences to promote the development of doctoral students’ expertise in early childhood studies and implementation science.
Practitioners
The Anita Zucker Center and the Special Education Program in the College of Education offer doctoral leadership preparation for scholars who are interested in becoming experts in early childhood studies, special education, implementation science and research and evaluation methodology.
Practice-Based Coaching
Researchers at the Anita Zucker Center have been studying professional development for more than 25 years to develop the best strategies for teachers and caregivers. Practice-based coaching (PBC) has shown great promise in a series of studies conducted in partnerships across the United States.
Families and Caregivers
We support families and caregivers through evidence-based practices that help them respond to their child’s needs in ways that promote early development and learning. Our research, publications and training resources not only help families in communities across our country, they also extend internationally to aid families in regions where resources and support are scarce.
Leadership
To influence the transformation of early childhood learning and development, we are working to prepare students in a variety of ways, to create a future where every child experiences nurturing and responsive relationships, and quality early learning experiences that create a strong foundation for future life success.