ERIC Number: EJ1443745
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 22
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0896-3746
EISSN: EISSN-1550-5081
Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Studies: Inclusion in the Early Childhood Years
Mary Frances Hanline; Jennifer Nicole Eldridge; Audrey Robbins
Infants and Young Children, v37 n4 p294-315 2024
The purpose of this meta-synthesis was to integrate findings from qualitative research studying the experiences and outcomes of children when they participate in inclusive early childhood (EC) classrooms. The goal was to promote a broader understanding of practices and outcomes in inclusive EC programs. Eight primary studies were included in the meta-synthesis. Evaluation of the eight qualitative studies indicated that all utilized methods to establish trustworthiness and ensure rigorous methodology for the type of data collected, indicating high-quality of the studies. Three themes resulted from the systematic coding of the results of the primary studies. These themes related to the outcomes of children's access to and full participation in inclusive EC programs, the formation of positive relationships and friendships between the children with and without disabilities as a result of interactions over time, and the children's autonomy in social interactions as reflected in when, how, and with whom the children chose to interact. The results support that EC inclusion can result in positive outcomes for children and should be expanded as a service delivery model. Implications for future research and the provision of services are discussed.
Descriptors: Student Experience, Outcomes of Education, Inclusion, Early Childhood Education, Access to Education, Interpersonal Relationship, Friendship, Students with Disabilities, Interaction, Personal Autonomy
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Available from: Wolters Kluwer. 351 West Camden Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. Tel: 800-638-3030; e-mail: MR-WKCustomerSupport@wolterskluwer.com; Web site: https://journals.lww.com/pages/default.aspx
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Information Analyses; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A