Western Sydney University study explores how ECEC educators support communication and literacy before school

Early childhood educators and teachers across New South Wales are being invited to participate in a new research project examining how children’s communication and emergent literacy skills are supported in the year before school.

The study, Communication Skills for Big School, is being led by researchers from Western Sydney University, in collaboration with the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne. The project aims to build a clearer understanding of the skills, knowledge, confidence and everyday practices used by Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) professionals to support children’s communication and early literacy development within preschool and long day care settings.

According to the Participant Information Sheet, the research is expected to contribute to “new knowledge of how ECEC educators/teachers support children’s communication and early literacy skills in the year before school,” with the potential to highlight effective teaching strategies and programs that enhance outcomes for children transitioning to formal schooling.

Who can participate

The anonymous online survey is open to qualified preschool educators and teachers currently working with children aged three years and six months to five years and 11 months in NSW childcare and preschool services.

Survey questions explore:

• Educator experience in their current preschool setting
• Confidence in facilitating communication and early literacy
• Approaches and practices used to support preschool‑aged children

The survey takes approximately 10–15 minutes to complete, and participation is entirely voluntary.

About the research team

The project is being undertaken by Liz Slattery, a PhD candidate at Western Sydney University, under the supervision of:

• Associate Professor Elise Baker
• Professor Caroline Jones
• Dr Kate Short
• Professor Jane Page

The study forms part of Ms Slattery’s doctoral research in Health Sciences.

Why this research matters

The study comes at a time of increasing national attention on school readiness, early language development and the critical role ECEC settings play in supporting children’s communication skills before they enter primary school.

Communication and emergent literacy are widely recognised as foundational to later learning, social participation and academic success. As the sector continues to emphasise evidence‑informed practice and early intervention, research capturing the insights of educators working directly with preschool‑aged children is increasingly valuable.

How to participate

The survey will take 10–15 minutes to complete and is anonymous. For more information about the study read the Participation information sheet.