Research Spotlight: Dr. Julia G. Cuevas-Guerra
Q & A with Dr. Julia G. Cuevas-Guerra, Assistant Professor in the Department of Human Development and School Services
What are your research interests and research achievements?
As an early childhood teacher educator, my research has focused on effective and evidence-based teacher practices and preparation that foster the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s (NAEYC) early childhood professional preparation standards: 1) promoting child development and learning; 2) building family and community relations; 3) observing, documenting, and assessing to support young children and families; 4) using developmentally effective approaches; 5) using content knowledge to build meaningful curriculum; and 6) becoming a professional. Together, these research interests add to the body of knowledge for early childhood educators to provide equitable learning opportunities and support the highest quality of care and education to promote all children’s optimal development and learning across all domains and content areas.
My research achievements support the Practice-Based Coaching model as an effective method to provide professional development through coaching to develop the pedagogical knowledge base of early childhood teachers in emerging biliteracy. My research also supports integrating the Reyes & Azuara’s (2008) Ecological Model of Emergent Biliteracy to help early childhood teachers provide effective instruction related to the precursors for emerging biliteracy development such as concepts of print, phonological awareness, alphabet knowledge, oral language and writing in two languages.
How does your work align with UTRGV’s and CEP’s strategic plans?
My work aligns with UTRGV’s and CEP strategic plan in fostering student success with equitable opportunities and practices that best prepare early childhood educators to: 1) be highly involved in the early childhood field; 2) uphold ethical standards and early childhood professional guidelines; 3) be highly engaged in collaborative learning to inform practice; 4) be a reflective practitioner and; 4) be a change agent through advocacy for young children and the early childhood profession by promoting social justice, embracing diversity and fostering bilingual, bicultural and biliterate practices.
What are your current projects?
I have several ongoing projects:
- I am currently writing a chapter publication titled: Latinx Experience: Breaking Through the Shadows of Oppression: A DACAmented Testimonio
- I am currently completing a manuscript about the effectiveness of the Practice-Based Coaching Model and effective emergent biliteracy practices in an Early Head Start Program.
- I am collaborating with colleagues in completing a longitudinal study of the Early Head Start Grant.
- I am collaborating with alma mater colleagues in using platicas as a qualitative research method to excavate the testimonios and experiences of Latinx educators in P-16.