Characteristics of educational language practices observed in four toddler groups in Norwegian ECEC

The study investigates the language learning environment and educational language practices in Norwegian kindergarten groups that score high on the Listening and Talking subscale. The research question is: What characterises the kindergarten employees’ verbal interactions with children in four toddler groups?

The study shows that children who achieve high scores on the language test regarding listening and speaking skills are surrounded by kindergarten staff who respond to the children’s speech or speech attempts using rich, contextual language. These language environments are also characterised by kindergarten staff, to some extent, following up the children’s statements by building on/broadening the child’s statement, as well as providing explanations.

Four toddler groups at different kindergartens (three public and one private) participated in the study. A total of 45 children and 17 kindergarten employees participated. The children were between one and three years old. The employee group included both kindergarten teachers and assistants. Verbal interactions between children and adults were observed and video recorded. The data material was transcribed, categorised and analysed at the end of the observation period.

Hansen, J. E. (2020). "Characteristics of educational language practices observed in four toddler groups in Norwegian ECEC". International Journal of Early Years Education, 28(4):382-396.