Reflective Analysis of Portfolio Artifact Rationale/Reflection NAEYC Standard:

NAEYC Standard 6: Becoming a Professional Candidates prepared in early childhood degree programs identify and conduct themselves as members of the early childhood profession. They know and use ethical guidelines and other professional standards related to early childhood practice. They are continuous, collaborative learners who demonstrate knowledgeable, reflective and critical perspectives on their work, making informed decisions that integrate knowledge from a variety of sources. They are informed advocates for sound educational practices and policies.

Brief Description of Evidence:

The advocacy project I completed as part of my ECED 260 course consists of a topic and statement of need chosen based on evidence gathered regarding children in the surrounding communities. The project was created in order to get knowledge regarding the importance of exposing children to the written word from as early as birth and to advocate for families to become more involved in reading to their children from an early age. The project also consists of letters to the editors of three separate newspapers, a summarization of the evidence researched, and an information brochure informing families of the resources available in their communities.

Analysis of What I Learned:

While researching information for this project I learned how low the statistics are regarding literacy rates in not only my own community, but also the surrounding communities. I expanded my knowledge relating to the negative effects caused by low literacy development. Furthermore, this project informed me on just how many free resources are available in order to assist families with instilling literacy and art appreciation in young children.

How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence on the NAEYC Standard:

This artifact demonstrates my competence in identifying and conducting myself as a member of the early childhood profession through the act of advocating for the children and families in the community. The advocacy project establishes my capability to integrate knowledge relating to childrens needs from a variety of sources while collaborating with others in my field in order to make informed decisions. This project demonstrates my ability to use the knowledge I gain during research in an ethical manner, which fits the guidelines set forth by NAEYC. Furthermore, this artifact proves I have become an informed advocate for sound educational practices and policies through the act of carrying out the project.