Experiences Get Carried Forward: How Albertans Think About Early Child Development

Through qualitative research with Albertans and two types of comparative analysis, this report examines the challenges of communicating the science of early childhood development in the Albertan cultural context. Through a cross-cultural comparison we identify key differences between American and Albertan cultural models and use these differences to suggest strategic communications recommendations. In a second comparative analysis, we look at the differences between the ways that Albertans and scientists understand issues of development. Through this comparison, we highlight gaps in understanding that communications research must fill to improve the accessibility and applicability of the science around this issue.