EARLY Lab
We develop research-based information and provides policy and program-related supports in regard to the education of young children.
The Early Assistance of Reading and Literacy in Youngsters Lab (the EARLY Lab) targets early childhood development and education, especially in early language and literacy skills. By identifying important predictors of early literacy and exploring the role of various technologies and learning environments, we aim to inform effective practices and policies. We invite passionate students to join us in supporting at-risk children's literacy development through multidisciplinary research.
Our Team
The EARLY Lab is led by professor S. Claire Son of the Department of Educational Psychology and Utah Education Policy Center. Dr. Son is interested in multiple environmental and technological factors that support reading, early literacy, and academic skills, and their assessment and program evaluation.
About the Lab
Our research focuses on early childhood development and education, especially in early language, literacy, and academic skills of at-risk children with social or economic disparities in Utah as well as across the United States. The EARLY Lab is actively investigating early development of reading behaviors, engagement, and learning. We are also interested in identifying important predictors of early literacy, including various technologies and teaching practices in home, classroom, and community contexts. Current projects attempt to integrate academic research, community outreach, and policy initiatives, and empower local educational and community agencies.
Questions? Contact Our Program!
We are a research group mentoring undergraduate and graduate students from a variety of disciplines to support young children’s literacy and language development and learning. We welcome potential students nationally and internationally via research assistantships, UROP, and SPUR programs.
Contact Info
We’d love to talk with you about research opportunities. Please email:
S. Claire Son
Director
Mailing Address
Department of Educational Psychology
Early Lab
1721 Campus Center Drive
SAEC 3249
Salt Lake City, UT 84109
Partners
We have been in partnership with several local education agencies, including SLC CAP Head Start, SLC Public Library, Utah State Library, and several elementary schools in Salt Lake City areas. We are also collaborating with multiple universities nationally and internationally.
