Runke Huang

Labs

Runke Huang
Title:

Assistant Professor

Education Background:
PhD The University of Oxford
MEd The University of Hong Kong (with distinction)
BEd Beijing Normal University
Office Address

814 TXB

Teaching Area

Child development

Research

Child development and education
Adult-child interaction
Quality of preschool education
Educational intervention

Lab info

Our lab is dedicated to advancing the quality of early childhood education by focusing on the critical aspects of teacher-child interaction and preschool quality assessment. We believe that the foundation of a child’s educational journey begins in the preschool years, where high-quality interactions between teachers and children play a pivotal role in shaping long-term developmental outcomes.

Central to our research is the exploration and understanding of teacher-child interactions. These interactions are at the heart of the educational experience, influencing everything from cognitive development to social-emotional growth. To rigorously assess and enhance these interactions, our lab employs observational rating tools that measure process quality within preschool settings. These tools provide us with valuable insights into the dynamics of the classroom environment, allowing us to identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.

Beyond assessment, our lab is committed to driving quality improvement through targeted interventions. We work closely with preschool teachers, offering professional development opportunities designed to enhance their skills and strategies in fostering positive, impactful interactions with children. By equipping educators with the knowledge and tools they need, we aim to create supportive and enriching environments that promote better outcomes for all children.

Our ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that every child benefits from high-quality early education. Through our work, we strive to contribute to a deeper understanding of what makes preschool education effective and to support teachers in delivering the best possible learning experiences for young children.