There has been a dearth of published research exploring the scientific ideas that young children construct, particularly in prestigious periodicals in the science education genre. The current article discusses the reasons behind this lack of prominence, and suggests ways forward that may link work from the field of developmental psychology with…

Presents descriptions of play reflecting recent theories, including the psychoanalytic works of Freud, Erikson, and Peller; Piaget's developmental theory (with discussion of Sutton-Smith); and the views of Smilansky and Parten. (AS)

The apparently limited classroom application of theories of learning has led to an emphasis on detailed observational studies of teachers in action. This emphasis has produced data concerning management and teaching techniques that is of obvious use to practicing teachers. (CB)

Argues that the issue of quality in day care provision for children is relative, but that the best alternative to a universally accepted definition of quality is a conceptual framework within which different definitions of quality can be constructed. Describes and develops six dimensions of quality in day care: effectiveness, acceptability,…