The Dialog Framework: Actualizing Research in Support of Early Childhood Inclusion

Abstract

Connecting research to practice is a critical component of scholarship, yet research often remains confined to academia, rather than reaching the professionals, families, and policymakers who can use it. Translating research into meaningful practice can be especially challenging in early childhood inclusion, where studies are typically conducted in real-world setting with young children with delays or disabilities and their families. As an open-access journal, The Dialog serves as a bridge between research and practice by making evidence more accessible and actionable. This article is intended for professionals, faculty instructors in preparation programs, advocates,  caregivers, and others seeking to connect research to their work on inclusion with children and families. It highlights how articles published in The Dialog connects with three foundational pillars of inclusion (preparation, practice, and policy) and emphasizes Research to Practice (RTP) products authors create to accompany their manuscripts to support immediate use by professionals.