Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction -- How do we know? -- The culture and context of research in early childhood education -- Methodologies -- Qualitative research: aims and methods -- Understanding analyses in qualitative research -- Quantitative research: aims and methods -- Understanding analyses in quantitative methods -- Research questions about children -- Research questions about the adults in children's lives -- Research questions about classrooms and curriculum -- Research questions about institutions and policy -- Teacher research -- Research and practice: promises, pitfalls, and limitations.