Evaluation of General Sources

I was asked to look at controversies in my field of study to discuss as well as to practice citing properly. I chose the key words "Preschool controversy 2015" and "Preschool debate 2015" because I knew that there is a huge debate going on right now in America in regards to how to treat preschool- in a more academic way or play-based. I prefer play-based learning due to the fact that the kids want to learn and learn on their own through the activities we guide them through. Besides, who wouldn't want to play all day anyway? Others in my field would disagree and feel that a more structured beginning will result in a more formal and structured process through college, paving the way early for homework, assignments, and other school-related things. 

The first article I found was: "Academic vs. play-based preschool debate fading in favor of intellectual discovery". 

The following is more information on this article.

• URL: http://www.post-gazette.com/news/education/2015/04/01/Academic-vs-play-based-preschool-debate-fading-in-favor-of-intellectual-discovery/stories/201503310025
• Author: Jill Harkins
• Last Updated: April 1, 2015
• Purpose: To educate teachers and parents on the development of play-based favoritism. 
• Graphics: There is one graphic of a little boy playing with music bells.
• Position on Subject: Play-based oriented preschools tend to see more goals being reached by the toddlers who follow this type of learning style. 
• Links: There were no other links or suggested articles to read in completion of this article. 

The second article I found was: "The National Preschool Debate Intensifies".

The following is more information on this article:

• URL: http://www.edutopia.org/preschool
• Author: Michael Lester
• Last Updated: May 29, 2007
• Purpose: Inform politicians, teachers, and parents of the increased in heated debate.
• Graphics: There is one graphic of a little girl writing her ABCs on a chalk board. 
• Position on Subject: Feels that the political debate is strong when it comes to preschool because preschool is a strong foundation for children and can improve poverty rates if handled appropriately. 
• Links:National Institute for Early Education Research  is the link provided for futher information.