In this book, the authors discuss criteria and methodologies for evaluating and improving the quality of learning, and show how to evaluate practice and create action plans for improvement. They present a variety of case studies, including: a family centre; LEA nursery unit; a workplace nursery, an LEA nursery class; an inner-city reception class in a primary school; private day nurseries; and a social services day nursery. Each example is accompanied by a set of questions which highlight important features of the research process and suggest ways in which early years practitioners can examine and reflect on their own practice. This book draws on the experience of practitioners involved in the Effective Early Learning Research Project, developed to support early learning wherever young children are, whether in education, care, social services, health, voluntary sector, private sector, or state sector, from birth to 7 years. This book is essential reading for all early years practitioners, students, inspectors and trainers.