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A mixed-methods evaluation of an ecological systems approach for supporting young children from low-income backgrounds in Singapore
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Type
Article
Citation
Xie, H., Layne, H., Mardiana Abu Bakar, Jesuvadian, M., Ng, E. L., Chew, P. P., Lim, R., Chai, S., Loh, J. Y., Cheah, J., & Poon, K. (2024). A mixed-methods evaluation of an ecological systems approach for supporting young children from low-income backgrounds in Singapore. Asia Pacific Journal of Education. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/02188791.2024.2390656
Author
Xie Huichao
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Layne, Heidi
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Chew, Ping Phoon
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Lim, Rita
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Chai, Stephanie Mei Cheong
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Loh, Jie Ying
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Cheah, Jing
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Abstract
The number of low-income families in Singapore is increasing. Young children from impoverished backgrounds are at risk of development gaps and challenges. Research has shown that the accumulation of risk factors from adverse childhood experiences can lead to weaker outcomes later in life. The NTUC First Campus (NFC) launched the Child Support Model (CSM) to serve children and families from vulnerable, low-income backgrounds with a range of financial, social and learning support. A 3-year evaluation study using mixed-methods design was conducted to understand the effects of the CSM and the active ingredients in CSM. A cohort of 58 children from families making a monthly income of SGD$3,500 or less participated in the quantitative component where children’s language and cognitive outcomes and classroom engagement were measured at three time points in 2019 (Kindergarten 1) and 2020 (Kindergarten 2). Participating children’s parents and teachers were interviewed in the qualitative component and reported their perspectives and experiences in CSM.
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Journal
Asia Pacific Journal of Education
DOI
10.1080/02188791.2024.2390656