Early Learning Network Lead

Network Leadership Activities: The leadership activities of the Early Learning Network Lead constitute six primary functions:

1. Annual Network Meetings. In year 1 of the project, the Network Lead will host two Network meetings and one meeting with PDG recipients. In years 2 through 5, the Network Lead will host an annual Network meeting and an annual meeting with PDG recipients. An additional meeting is planned for year 4 to discuss research concepts emanating from workgroup meetings and engage in future planning.
2. Supplementary Studies. The Network Lead will organize workgroups based on the interests and expertise of Network members to identify topics and issues suitable for supplementary research that will be jointly undertaken by Network members.
3. A Network Website. The Network Lead will initiate development of a Network website that will support communication among Network team members and between the Network and public audiences. The website will also serve as a clearinghouse for the Network's resources, research papers, and products.
4. Policy Briefings and Presentations. The Network Lead will work with the Research Teams and the Assessment Team to organize a series of research-based, practice- and policy-relevant presentations for Network partners' use at practice and policy meetings. Network Lead staff will also develop translational materials for practitioners.
5. Annual Meetings with PDG Recipients. Each year, the Network Lead will host a 1.5 day workshop in Washington, D.C. for approximately 100 PDG practitioners to support their efforts and share information about the work of the Network. The Network Lead will solicit input from the PDG group to set the agenda for these meetings.
6. Guidance and Tools for Early Childhood Practitioners. The Network Lead will offer interactive online conferences, develop and disseminate information and tools via the Network website, and provide individualized support to early learning practitioners.

In addition to these six core functions, the Network Lead will provide opportunities for participation and leadership by early career scholars, including post-doctoral investigators and graduate students, to help develop long-term research capacity in the field.