Throughout this course, I have had the privilege of corresponding with a colleague from Ireland. This experience has brought into perspective that the issue of early childhood education is a concern world-wide, not just locally in the United States.
Early childhood professionals in other countries face the same hurdles and difficulties that we face here in our country. And they also have the same desire to affect change and make a difference in the lives of children.
Would it not be wonderful if we could all work together throughout the world to ensure that all children have the opportunity to receive a quality and appropriate education? Just imagine the positive change this would have on our world today.
Another aspects of communication with my colleague is the ability to receive feedback from her on issues that I am dealing with. Not only did we discuss the topics that were assigned, but we also discussed daily issues that we were each dealing with in our classrooms. We provided suggestions, ideas and even support during this time.
I also feel that my communication has provided me with the educational experience needed to become a more effective advocate for early childhood education. Funding and quality teachers seem to be two of the most common hurdles for countries throughout the world. According to an article by Roger Neugebauer, "One of the biggest challenges facing the entire field is recruiting, training, and retaining talented early educators and encouraging the next generation of individuals passionate about the development of young children to pursue careers in child care and education. With so many competing career choices that can be lucrative and a continued lack of respect in our society for the serious and skilled work of early education, it is critical that we continue to find creative ways to overcome these obstacles" (Neugebauer, 2008).
References:
http://www.childcareexchange.com/library/5017932.pdf
Sonya,
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing how funding in early childhood education seems to be an issue all over the world which actually ties into the lack of quality teachers if you think about it. Something definitely should be done to remedy this situation. It sounds like you have solid plans to become an effective advocate for the field. Good luck to you in your future courses!
Sonya,
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed reading your post and following the correspondence between you and your Ireland connection. I know that you will do well in all your endeavors. Funding seems to be the reason passionate educators are scarce in the field, maybe together through networking with policymakers change will come locally and internationally. I have enjoyed having you as a colleague.
I have really enjoyed the stories from Ireland. Thank you for the wisdom and effort to share them with us. Globalization has made inclusiveness take on a whole new meaning. The challenge of the EC field reflects a globe now, not just a region or state. Our country is playing catch-up, thanks for joining the effort.
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