What does 'readiness' generally refer to in an educational context?

'Readiness' in an educational context typically refers to the biological or physiological readiness for school, which encompasses developmental milestones that children should ideally reach before beginning formal education. This readiness includes factors such as cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development that affect a child's ability to learn and engage in the school environment.

Understanding this form of readiness is essential for educators as it helps determine whether a child is prepared to meet the demands of a structured learning setting. Children who enter school developmentally ready are generally more successful in their initial academic experiences.

While the emotional maturity of students, their academic performance levels, and the availability of educational resources are important factors in a child's overall educational experience, they are not the primary focus of the concept of 'readiness' as it pertains to starting school. Each of these factors can influence a child's success in school, but they do not specifically define the foundational aspect of biological and physiological readiness necessary for effective learning.