"In the context of our research and development function, one of the Centre’s initial tasks was to undertake a review of national research in the area of early childhood care and education (CECDE, 2003). We prioritised this piece of research as it was felt that it would provide a valuable insight into current research in the field, as well as aiding the identification of existing voids. There had been no review of publications pertaining exclusively to the early childhood care and education sector. A number of audits such as the Disability Related Research in Ireland 1996-2001 (NDA, 2002a), the Innéasc Taighde conducted by An Comhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta (O’Connor, 2002)and the collation of theses by the Early Years Research Centre (UCC, 1997) detailed certain aspects of research in the early years but this is the first comprehensive audit of early childhood care and education research. This audit represents a co-production with the sector and it is largely due to the overwhelming response from individuals and organisations that this publication has been realised.." (From the Introduction, CECDE, September 2003)
Centre for Early Childhood Development & Education
Gate Lodge, St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. Tel: 00353 (0)1 8842110 Fax: 00353 (0)1 8842111
Email: early.childhood@spd.dcu.ie
