Evidence-based practice

An integral part of teaching, and a principle underpinning professional practice in the early years, is the importance of reflecting on and researching our own practice. For example, in Australia the Early Years Learning Framework identifies 'ongoing learning and reflective practice' (DEEWR, 2009, p. 13) as one of the five principles distilled from theories and research evidence that underpin professional practice in the early years. Recognising teaching as encompassing the role of researching pedagogical practice highlights that teaching is not simply practical or procedural, but requires intellectual work. This chapter details evidence-based practice (EBP) in early years education.