The website I chose to explore was http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/. Some of the current international issues that are present in the website regarding Early Childhood Australia are facing roles as advocacy. Some teachers feel as though their role as teachers and teachers first and foremost, which is true, but is leaving them with no time to take active roles as advocates in young children. This would give voices to children. The issues that arise from lack of advocacies are resources, referral agencies, affordable child care, accreditation, licensing requirements, staff support and salaries.
It’s not necessarily a new insight, but I like how Australia has a code of ethics. I feel as though a code of ethics creates an expectation across the board for all education professionals. I think it is a great benefactor to see that other countries are using a similar means of standard.
Noteworthy information that I found was The Research Practical Series. This series provides practical, easy to read resources for those involved in the early childhood field (Early Childhood Australia, 2011). I like that the website provides a convenient ad quick way to find resources. It seems like it would be beneficial to have the books which are designed to assist with challenging issues which arise in the care and education of young children by offering effective, new approaches.
Early Childhood Australia. 2011. http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/.
Keisha I think the teachers are voicing a universal concern. Sometimes we get so bogged down in paperwork and rules that it seems it never lets up. Finding time for advocacy is important though and we have to press to make the time. And I agree having a code of ethics is a must especially in education. We influence some of the most precious times in a child's life and we have to be held accountable, it's great to see that view shared around the world.
ReplyDeleteKeisha,
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful organization and their website has a vast array of information. The resources you mentioned are easy to find and useful. Teachers as advocates is an important issue and I do believe sometimes the goal and paperwork of teaching gets in the way of our advocating efforts. This year alone I have been advocating so much for the right of young children in pre-k. I'm not sure if I've made much headway but the teachers I work with are behind me 100%. We know that play is important and not testing. Unfortunately this year we have been required to test our 4 and 5 year olds and them to some of the same standards as the rest of the school. This is all very unfortunate, I am hoping for some good positive changes next year.
Giny
Many of the issues that Australian educators are facing are some of the same issues such as quality programming, licensing and financial support. We difinately have commonalities.
ReplyDeleteI think that it is so important that you have recognized what I think some of us really do fail to see and that is the importance of a code of ethics that holds all of us responsible for implementing the same standard for all teachers. What an amazing insight and wonderful contribution.
ReplyDelete