Constant changes occurring in early childhood education make staying up-to-date with current educational trends and issues critical for early childhood educators. Trends and issues in education affect teachers, and ultimately, students. Therefore, teachers need to stay abreast of current research in order to advocate and incorporate developmentally appropriate practices.

For this assignment, you will be researching a current issue in early childhood education, and advocating for your position on the issue.

Part 1: Resources

After you have selected an early childhood education issue to advocate, using the “Current Issues Affecting the Classroom” template, provide four resources for stakeholders (families, educators, elected officials, community members, etc.) that provide information about the issue and its importance in early childhood education. Include links to your resources, along with a 50-100 word explanation for each resource detailing how it supports your call to action.

Part 2: Speech

Write and videotape a two-minute speech advocating for your position on the early childhood education issue.

Your speech should include:

• Description of the issue and your position
• Proposal for modifying or changing the current cause or policy
• Support through a minimum of two suggested and researched strategies
• A conclusion reiterating your position and how it will change or improve the early childhood education issue

Do not video tape but write out speech.

You will be evaluated on the content of your speech, including introduction, research, and call to action, as well as your presentation and delivery. Show professionalism in your speech and appearance.

Use an online video platform such as Loom, YouTube, or Vimeo to upload your completed video. Be sure that others can access and view your linked video prior to submitting. Include the link on your completed “Current Issues Affecting the Classroom” template.

Support your speech with 3-5 scholarly references, and list them on the “Current Issues Affecting the Classroom” template.

This assignment uses a rubric. Review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

Please follow rubric.