Examining Interdisciplinary Collaboration Within an Agency-Wide, Early Literacy Project: The Little Read Initiative

• In Event: Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: Partnerships in Health and Education

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to share the results of an exploratory mixed methods research study designed to shed light on experiences of staff members in an agency-wide, interdisciplinary early literacy project designed to foster children's social and emotional learning. These researchers conducted 24 interviews (12 pre- and post- project) and administered 125 surveys with staff who represented the fields of education, social work, nursing, nutrition, and transportation. Data revealed three primary themes - the importance and complexity of collaboration among disciplines in early childhood programs and new challenges resulting from recent accountability and reform efforts. The paper also identifies next steps useful to professionals and scholars interested in initiating or studying interdisciplinary collaboration in early childhood settings.

Authors

• Elizabeth McKendry Anderson, Binghamton University - SUNY

• Nicole Scarlett Fenty, Binghamton University - SUNY