Using Research Tools to Improve Language in the Early Years
The Project
Using Research Tools to Improve Language in the Early Years (URLEY) is designed to improve young children’s oral language skills through evidence-based professional development for early years practitioners. The approach involves using research tools (the Environment Rating Scales and others) as a framework for self-evaluation and improvement.
URLEY was developed by the University of Oxford and A+ Education Ltd and is currently being evaluated as part of a large-scale randomised controlled trial, funded by the EEF and involving one hundred and twenty two schools. Nursery and reception class teachers from 62 schools took part in the year-long programme in 2017. They attended six training workshops and received individual in-class support. During the same period, 60 schools continued with ‘business as usual’ as part of a control group. The effects of the programme are being evaluated by an external team (BIT/NIESR). Children’s language skills are being assessed at the start and end of the programme (approximately 1,700 children) to evaluate whether children in URLEY schools do better than children in control group schools. Changes in children’s social and behavioural development are also being assessed.
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Project Details
Research Team
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ProjectPupil interactions and networks in special schoolsStart date: September 2024End date: August 2025
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ProjectFeasibility trial of an adapted anti-bullying programme for children in special schoolsStart date: October 2024End date: September 2026
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ProjectEffectiveness Trial for the Evaluation of the Mathematical Reasoning Programme for Year 2 Pupils Using an Online Professional Development Training ModelStart date: February 2024End date: March 2026
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ProjectOnline Professional Development for Delivering the Mathematical Reasoning Programme in Year 2Start date: November 2022End date: October 2023
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NewsNew trial will evaluate Talking Time programme for Early Years practitionersJanuary 25, 2024
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NewsReport published today provides evidence on what influences EAL learners to mitigate language learning lossMarch 17, 2021
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NewsPutting children first: sharing research evidence to inform Indian education policy and practiceAugust 11, 2020
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NewsClosing the language gap: New programme found to boost young children’s language skills by +3 monthsMay 1, 2020