Clemmer College of Education and Human Development at ETSU

09/02/2026

Unraveling the Mystery: Observing and Understanding Children’s Peer Cultures

In a new Exchange Community Voices article, Early Childhood PhD Fellow, Ashley Shook and Dr. Jane Broderick take a closer look at what children are *actually* doing when they build play groups, decide who can join, and negotiate their roles. Rather than immediately stepping in when children exclude others or disagree, what might we discover by first asking: What’s happening here, and why?

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲: https://hub.exchangepress.com/articles-on-demand/88215/

Citation:
Shook, A., & Broderick, J. (2026, August 13). Unraveling the mystery: Observing and understanding children’s peer cultures. Exchange Press. https://hub.exchangepress.com/articles-on-demand/88215/

09/01/2026

Recentlt, Dr. Jane Broderick and Dr. Pam Evanshen took a group of Clemmer PhD students to visit the Lucy Brock Child Development Lab at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. The visit gave students an opportunity to see a Reggio-inspired program grounded in constructivist theory and practices that they explore in their coursework. Students engaged in observation, rich discussion, and viewing documentation of children’s learning. Thank you to Andrea Anderson for welcoming the group and sharing this valuable experience with our students!

08/31/2026

08/26/2026

Remembering Dolly ❤️

East Tennessee will always hold a special place in Dolly Parton’s heart, and her love for these mountains, their people, and the spirit of Appalachia has touched generations.

From the beauty of the Smokies to the strength and kindness found throughout East Tennessee, Dolly reminded us to be proud of where we come from and to never forget the people and places that shape us.

Today, we remember not only an icon, but a true East Tennessee girl who carried the heart of the mountains with her wherever she went. 🌄❤️

Forever a Tennessee treasure.
Forever part of these mountains.
Forever Dolly. 🦋
Dolly Parton

08/26/2026

Remembering this fondly today. Dolly always cared, especially for us.

The East Tennessee star had some inspiring words for the Class of 2...

08/25/2026

We at the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development are deeply saddened by the passing of Mrs. Dolly Parton. Mrs. Dolly's Imagination Library gifted over 332,411,200 books to over 3 million children in the United States, and all over the world. Few knew the importance of literacy and the dreams of children more than she. Dolly once said, "the seeds of these dreams are often found in books and the seeds you plant in your community can grow across the world." She is a true example of strengthening the foundation for the people in Appalachia and beyond.

We will always love you.

08/24/2026

08/24/2026

Dr. Evanshen and Dr. Broderick a group of our PhD students on Friday to visit the Lucy Brock Child Development Lab at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. It was such a great opportunity for them to see a Reggio inspired program grounded in constructivist theory and practices, which they learn about in their coursework. Thank you Andrea Anderson for hosting us for observation, rich discussion, and viewing the documentation of learning, some of which is highlighted in our photo here.

08/19/2026

Dr. Dawe Rowe and ELPA doctoral candidate Jennifer Shoniber recently presented at the 2026 Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Special Education Summer Institute, engaging more than 200 educators and school leaders from across the Marshall Islands!

Their session explored teacher pathways and the importance of advancing teaching credentials to strengthen the special education workforce and improve outcomes for students with disabilities. Through meaningful conversations with educators and school leaders, Rowe and Shoniber highlighted opportunities for professional growth, teacher retention, and expanding access to high-quality instruction for all learners. Their work reflects a shared commitment to supporting educators and strengthening special education through professional development and expanded opportunities for teachers.