What Is Important for Young Dual Language Learners? Educators’ Perceptions of Domain-Related Areas in the Prekindergarten Foundation for the Common Core

Abstract

This pilot study surveyed the perceptions of early childcare providers, teachers, and administrators about four general areas represented in the Prekindergarten Foundation for the Common Core domains—approaches to learning, social, and emotional development, pre-literacy, and general knowledge—and how these relate to children’s ability to succeed in kindergarten and subsequent schooling. Results reveal that while administrators and teachers agreed on the importance of each area, teachers who had high numbers of dual language learners and/or served children in urban areas viewed pre-literacy skills as very important, especially in comparison with general knowledge. Implications of this pilot study for practice and future research are discussed.