HighScope Preschool Curriculum Overview

The HighScope Approach to Preschool Education

Introduction to the HighScope Curriculum
  • Curriculum originates from the Latin word meaning "course in a race".
  • HighScope Preschool Curriculum provides a developmental course for young children.
  • It integrates educational philosophy, teaching practices, and learning goals.
Origins of the HighScope Preschool Curriculum
  • Developed for children at risk of school failure in Ypsilanti, Michigan, in 1962.
  • Initiated by David P. Weikart in response to low achievement in high school students from poor neighborhoods.
  • Addressed inadequate learning opportunities rather than innate intelligence.
  • Proposed a preschool education program for at-risk children based on research advocating early intervention.
  • Focus shifted towards intellectual development in addition to social and emotional growth.
Development and Testing of the Curriculum
  • The curriculum was tested through a study where children were randomly assigned to either a preschool program or no preschool program.
  • Three criteria established for effective preschool curriculum:
    1. Curriculum guided by coherent teaching theory.
    2. Supports individual talents through active learning opportunities.
    3. Collaboration among teachers, researchers, and administrators.
  • Influenced by educational theorists like Jean Piaget, John Dewey, and Lev Vygotsky.
Central Principles of the HighScope Preschool Curriculum

  • Active Participatory Learning:

    • Children learn through direct experiences and reflecting on those experiences.
    • Encourages initiative, exploration, and problem-solving.

  • Adult-Child Interactions:

    • Positive interactions create a safe learning environment.
    • Adults use support and encouragement instead of praise and punishment.

  • Learning Environment:

    • Learning spaces are designed to promote independence with accessible materials.

  • Daily Routine:

    • The consistent routine includes a plan-do-review sequence, fostering predictability and control for children.

  • Assessment:

    • Assessment is based on observations and anecdotes, focusing on children's development and engagement.
Evidence of Effectiveness
  • HighScope education has been validated through various studies:
HighScope Perry Preschool Study
  • Examined 123 participants from 1962-1967 and their outcomes at age 40.
    • Key Findings:
    • Social Responsibility: Lower rates of arrests among program participants.
    • Economic Status: Higher employment rates and earnings than non-program peers.
    • Educational Performance: Higher graduation rates and academic achievements.
    • Family Life: More responsibility in family roles and better relational dynamics.
HighScope Curriculum Comparison Study
  • Compared HighScope with traditional nursery and direct instruction models.
  • Focused on social responsibility outcomes; HighScope participants showed less criminal behavior.
HighScope Training of Trainers Evaluation
  • Evaluated the effectiveness of HighScope teacher training, noting better practices in trained educators.
Independent Studies
  • Confirmed that children in HighScope programs display better initiative, social relations, and overall development.
Conclusion: Why HighScope Works
  • Children develop a sense of initiative and responsibility through active participation in a supportive classroom.
  • The plan-do-review process empowers children, fostering their curiosity and resourcefulness, impacting their lifelong learning positively.
  • HighScope promotes essential habits of mind like independence, trust, and responsibility that serve children throughout life.