* High-quality teaching: This wasn't simply about having qualified teachers, but also encompassed aspects like sensitive and responsive interactions with children, engaging and stimulating activities, and effective pedagogical approaches tailored to individual needs. Teachers who fostered a positive learning environment and created opportunities for children to learn through play were particularly successful.
* The curriculum: The study didn't advocate for one specific curriculum but highlighted the importance of a balanced curriculum that covered various developmental areas, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. Play-based learning was strongly emphasized as a key component.
* Group size and adult-child ratios: Smaller group sizes and lower adult-child ratios were generally associated with better outcomes, as they allowed for more individual attention and interaction.
* Resources and environment: Access to appropriate resources and a well-equipped, stimulating learning environment were also important factors. This includes things like adequate space, age-appropriate toys and materials, and outdoor play areas.
* Parental involvement: While not directly a feature *of* the preschool, EPPE highlighted the significant positive impact of strong parent-preschool relationships and parental involvement in their child's learning.
It's crucial to understand that EPPE didn't offer a checklist of must-haves. Instead, it demonstrated that a combination of these factors, working in synergy, leads to more effective preschool education. The effectiveness was measured by observing children's progress across various developmental areas, not just academic skills. The research emphasized the importance of holistic development and the crucial role of high-quality interactions between children and their teachers.