What Methods and Models Can Be Used to Translate Science to Levels Developmentally Appropriate to Be Taught in Preschool in the State of Massachusetts?
This capstone project examines the changes in curriculum for early childhood education, specifically preschool aged children. In reviewing and learning about the history of preschool education and how its curriculum has evolved over time, this capstone project was developed to understand the question of, what are methods and models that can be used to translate science to levels developmentally appropriate to be taught in preschool in the state of Massachusetts? While preschool\u27s curriculum main focus was in teaching fine and gross motor skills, research has shown that children as young as 3 years old are able to learn basic science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) principles Copple & Bredekamp, 2009). Preschool students are able to understand STEM principles through inquiry. By using an inquiry based teaching model this allows students to have hands-on learning experience while understanding basic science principles and learning to utilize critical thinking skills
