Panel Discussion on the OECDs International Early Learning and Child Well-Being Study

Please join us for a dynamic conversation about the IELS and the implementation of the pilot study being carried out in United States and England. Invited panelists will have a few minutes to share their perspectives on the IELS, so those unfamiliar or less familiar with the study can learn about it, as well as the concerns of the early childhood community.

Panelists:

• Denisha Jones, Ph.D.
  Assistant Professor of Early Childhood
  Trinity Washington University
  Defending the Early Years
• Beth Blue Swadener, Ph.D.
  Professor of Justice Studies
  Arizona State University
• Karen Tourangeau
  IELS US Project Director
  Westat
• Mathias Urban, Ph.D.
  Desmond Chair of Early Education
  Dublin City University

Discussion moderated by Lacey Peters and Helge Wasmuth.

This discussion also provides an opportunity to raise issues about the tool used to assess young children, as well as the lack of transparency around the pilot in the United States and England. We see this an opportunity to have a serious conversation that draws out perceived costs and benefits of this work, and situate IELS in the context of the global increase of standardized assessment.