HighScope Educational Research Foundation

Improving the math proficiency of children, especially those from low-income backgrounds, depends upon two factors. One is an appropriate curriculum that sequences early learning in key content areas. The second critical variable in improving math ability is the instructional competence of teachers. Unfortunately, the ability of teachers to deliver appropriate math instruction is hampered by their anxiety about teaching math, attitudes about math's importance in the curriculum, lack of knowl...

The High/Scope educational approach is implemented in many early childhood programs serving children from low-income and minority backgrounds. For example, the Head Start Family and Child Experiences Survey data indicate that one in four Head Start programs report using the High/Scope curriculum. Although the overall positive impact of the High/Scope approach has been demonstrated in past research, its mathematics component needs to be made compatible with current research and standards. The...