Research

Research Questions

On-site consultation is becoming more widely used as a training and technical assistance approach to quality improvement, yet the way in which it is delivered is quite variable. The delivery of the PFI systematic approach in multiple service systems will result in variations that will be evaluated as part of the research. The study will provide more information and direction to states and agencies trying to improve the quality of early childhood education. Research questions include:

• Is child care quality improved when providers receive PFI consultation?
• Is PFI consultation a more effective quality enhancement strategy than existing quality enhancement services?
• Does quality improvement maintain after PFI consultation ends?
• Do some providers benefit more than others (e.g., home/center, new-to-field/experienced)?
• Will children in the care of providers who receive special training have better outcomes than children in control groups?