New Directions in the Conceptualization and Operationalization of Children's Home Learning Environment

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: COVID, Child Outcomes, and Home Learning Environments

Abstract

The Home Learning Environment (HLE) focuses on everyday learning habits in families to support children’s competency development. In this study, we used multitrait-multimethod (MTMM) analyses to compare two theoretical dimensions and three methods for assessing the HLE and their associations with linguistic and mathematical competencies of kindergarten children. Our sample consisted of N = 190 children (Mage = 64 months, SD = 4.4). The MTMM matrix showed a substantial effect of common methods and indicated a one-dimensional HLE construct. A children’s book title recognition test was the best predictor of children’s linguistic and numeracy competencies. Even when controlling for child and family characteristics, the HLE was significantly related to both children’s mathematical and linguistic competencies in a structural equation model.

Authors

• Astrid Wirth, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

• Matthias Stadler, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

• Efsun Annac

• Frank Niklas, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München