Explain the difference between the terms "evidence-based practices" and "recommended practices." Give an example of at least one type of evidence-based practice in early childhood special education and explain how you might use it.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Evidence-based practices and recommended practices are related yet vary in their definition and meaning. Evidence-based practices refer to decision-making processes that draw on research within the field of early childhood education and early childhood special education, combined with professionals and families’ knowledge and experiences. Recommended practices, on the other hand, are suggestions about how to integrate research based-evidence into intervention and instructional strategies. Student’s answers will vary on the second part of this question but should address one of the following three types of evidence-based practices: (1) embedded interventions, (2) transition practices, or (3) assistive technology interventions. An example a student might give is how to use transition practices to ensure that a child successfully moves from one learning environment to another. For example, a child transitioning from a home center to a preschool may benefit from visiting the new center before their first day of school. This way, the student and family can meet the teachers and peers in the new learning environment. This knowledge comes from recommended practices (evidence-based practices) from the field, which demonstrates that children have more successful transitions when they are prepared for their new learning environment.