Time Well Spent

It is indeed a great feat to have successfully completed my M.S. in Early Childhood Studies.  My initial thoughts regarding pursuing this course was one of concern because no one from my country was enrolled in this course and my experiences with courses was of such that collegial support goes a long way in ensuring that one succeeds in these programs. However, at Walden that support was available so it made my journey quite comfortable.

Among the deeply felt learning derived are issues concerning young children and families, diversity, advocacy and professional growth.

The issue of diversity has been brought into sharper focus.  I have gained a deeper understanding of diversity.  I have been able to deal with many of my biases to ensure that all children succeed.  A person’s biases to a great extent are cultural in nature and many of these develop early in life (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2010).  I have been able to adopt an open perspective to ensure that children and families flourish.  There is need to embrace a culturally relevant pedagogy as well as critical pedagogy that will investigate injustices in race, class, gender and sexual orientation (Hyland, 2010).  Diversity makes for a rich tapestry and as such I view it as healthy and embrace all children’s culture. Ola noted that diversity embraces our uniqueness (Laureate Education, Inc., 2011).  There is need to honor all people.  Young children must be visible in the classroom so that they will be motivated to the extent that they will achieve their fullest potential.

 This program has definitely helped to enhance my advocacy efforts.  I realize that as an early childhood professional there is need to speak out on behalf of children, families and the field at large.  This is necessary to bring awareness to importance of early childhood years, children’s development, quality education and a host of other issues that impact on children’s development.  By so doing, I acquire greater self-confidence and I am even more encouraged to pursue greater issues pertaining to the field of early childhood.

 Professional growth is also necessary in order to remain relevant if information is constantly changing.  Being part of a community of practice is very vital.  The rate at which information is changing encourages me to remain align with other professionals to enhance our level of professionalism.  Being part of a community of practice definitely helps in that regard but it is also important to join a professionally association where issues of a global nature are addressed. 

 One of my long term goals is to work with the official on my island - Tobago to ensure that the quality of early childhood care and education improves. 

 To my instructor and colleagues I must say it has been a very intense journey.  You have been very supportive to me along this journey.  The level of respectful collaboration that has been the hallmark of this course has allowed me to contribute fully to the various discussions and assisted me to gain a greater understanding of the various contents.  I am more empowered for having been a part of this great program and endowed with a variety of skills that will allow me to make valuable contributions to the field.  I can be reached at: evlynjames@hotmail.com.  It has been a life changing experience from which I will deduct absolutely nothing because it has strengthened my resolve to soar in life.

References

 Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Merging Vision, Passion and Practice  [Video recording]. Baltimore, MD: Author.

 Derman-Sparks, L., & Edwards, J. O. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Hyland, N. E. (2010). Social justice in early childhood classrooms: What the research tells us. YC: Young Children, 65(1), 82–87. Retrieved from the Walden Library using the ProQuest Central database: http://search.proquest.com.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/docview/197637742?accountid=14872

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: Internationally

Association of Childhood Education International

https://www.acei.org

This organization is concerned about optimal development for both children and professionals worldwide.  Its Global Action Centre sensitizes the public of issues which impede children ability to not only participate in education but also to survive.  The organization acts as an advocate for social change by providing members/viewers with global action topics.  By so doing it helps to keep persons current on the issues affecting the world and the need to lend support.  The goals are all aimed at improving children’s chances in life.  I did not see any job being advertised but I can see myself working as an advocate for change with this organizations and institutions in my country.

United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

http://www.unesco.org

This organization utilizes dialogue based on respect as a means of achieving its global vision for sustainable development.  This is to be achieved through education, the eradication of poverty, developing healthy communication as well as making information accessible.   This will help to foster the mission of the organization which is to contribute to peace as well as intercultural discourse.  I selected this organization because it realizes that in order to reach people all over the world there is need to embrace various cultures and that is a very significant measure that will facilitate world peace and pave the way for dialogue as well as the wide range of publications that can be obtained free of charge.  The topics are very current and can provide valuable insight on issues that are being discussed in the public’s domain. I have not seen an job offers but I would be desirous of a specialist position in education as it relates to young children’s development.

Save the Children

http://www.savethechildren.org/

This organization is the leading independent organization for assisting needy children.  The programs extend to over 120 countries.  They are concerned about carving a path for children in order to ensure improving opportunities for children in the areas of education and economic opportunities. Many children in improvised counties/communities are not exposed to quality education.  Due to their vigorous efforts they were able to reach 11 million children in 39 countries providing them with early childhood education, opportunities to become literate as well as to attain wellness through health and nutrition.  I chose this organization because enhancing the life chances of children across the globe is at the heart of what they do. I was unable to locate any job opportunities but I saw volunteer positions such as advocate, educator or becoming a fundraiser for the organization.

References

Association of Childhood Education International (2011).  Retrieved from https://www.acei.org

Save the Children. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.savethechildren.org/site/c.8rKLIXMGIpI4E/b.6115947/k.8D6E/Official_Site.htm

United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). (2011). Retrieved from http://www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco/about-us/who-we-are/introducing-unesco/

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: National/Federal Level

I have chosen the following three organizations because their missions speak strongly to what I believe and they possess a wealth of information which seeks to further bolster my continual development.

A. National Association for the Education of Young Childhood (http://www.naeyc.org/)

This organization is the world’s largest organization for persons working with and on behalf of children 0-8 years.  It’s mission being to serve and act on behalf of all young children especially as it relates to educational and developmental services and resources and in light of this I particularly like this organization because of its clearly stated position statements on a wide range of issues, that really guide our practice as well as its strong advocacy stand on issues (http://www.naeyc.org/policy/advocacy).  In addition, the wide range of resources available to parents, teachers and children.

I am not interested in any of the available jobs however; I believe that the knowledge acquired from the website can definitely forge a new level of excitement and a desire to coordinate early childhood programs or serve as an early childhood specialist.

B. Highscope (http://www.highscope.org/) is concerned with the education of children and youth worldwide so they are very supportive of parents and educators effort. The mission of the organization is to lift lives through education.  Highscope engages in developing curricula, various types of training for teachers, caregivers, administrators, curriculum specialists and teacher educators.  They subscribe to active engagement.  They ensure that children’s interests and choices are at the forefront of what they do.  Highscope program adheres to best practices recommended by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), Head Start Performance Standards and other guidelines that endorse developmentally based programs.  Highscope program stands out from the other childhood programs because it deals with research, application and validation.  I chose Highscope because I had an opportunity to engage in some research activities in 2003 and it was interesting to see the wide range of skills our 3-5 year olds need to acquire. 

Among the job opportunities I favor are:

a)      Early Childhood Specialist which requires the development of curricula and training materials, engage in training using the Highscope approach and participate in developing program and assessment instruments.  Suitable candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, child and family development, curriculum development, or related field. Prefer early childhood ZA endorsement or a Master’s degree or higher with an early childhood focus; 3-5 years of early childhood teaching and caregiving and experience working with families; prefer a HighScope Field Consultant and experience in infant/toddler curriculum.

b)      Being an independent field consultant is also any area that peaks my interest. This will really call into effect all that I would have studies in my Masters program and probably a bit more.  It will certainly provide opportunities for me to merge theory with practice.

C. Early Childhood Unit-National Children’s Bureau  http://www.ncb.org.uk/ecu

This organization seeks to provide quality services for young children by working directly with early childhood institutions as well as through national networks.  Its mission is to enhance the well-being of young children as well to remove barriers which may be hindering children and families from received desired services.  Every year the organization undertakes approximately 60 projects in order to improve the life chances of children.  These projects fall under 8 key themes: disability; early years; education and learning; health and well-being; involving young people; play; sector improvement and vulnerable children.

I did not find any job opportunities but I will be interested in jobs of an administrative nature.  For my specialization area I concentrated on “How Adult Learn” so I am very interested in administrative portfolios such as coordinating early childhood programs.  Possessing a Masters in Early Childhood Education and years of experience working in the field would be considered ideal.  

References

Early Childhood Unit-National Children’s Bureau retrieved from http://www.ncb.org.uk/ecu

HighScope. (n.d.). Retrieved November 28, 2011, from http://www.highscope.org/

National Association for the Education of Young Children. (n.d.). Retrieved November 28, 2011, from http://www.naeyc.org/

Exploring Roles in the ECE Community: Local and State Levels

1.      Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Committee of the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA).  The committee is responsible for considering all matters pertaining to early childhood matters in Trinidad and Tobago and advising the Central Executive Committee.  I selected this committee because I recently became a member of it and this is due to the fact that I work in the field but for me I firmly believe that my wealth of knowledge and skills that I have acquired through my masters program has better positioned me to make a significant different in the lives of young children and parents as well as the field of early childhood.

2.      UWI-FDCRC is a dynamic and unique dual-purpose organization comprising of the Children Research Centre (UWI-CRC) and the Family Development Project (UWI-FDP).  It is regarded as a model centre for early childhood locally and regionally.  The centre trains early childhood professionals.  It also conducts workshops for parents and the wider ECCE community.  Its goal is to improve the life chances of children in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean.

3.      SERVOL has established a Parent Outreach Program (POP) in Trinidad and Tobago to assist under-privileged parents.  It was based on the premise that parents are likely to raise their children as they were raised so if they were abused the cycle is likely to repeat itself and secondly, single parent families which are mainly women have been challenged in finding the necessary support needed.  The program uses trained ECCE teachers who visit the remote villages, making friends with the parents and helping them with issues they may be encountering with their young children or life in general. These facilitators also partnered with other organizations such as the Health Sector to assist these parents.

All of the organizations I mentioned deal with children and as a early childhood professional I am very concern with the quality care young children receive because if it is not adequately catered for it will negatively impact on the quality of life for us as a people.  Having skills and experiences in the field of early childhood will work in one’s favor in all of the organizations I have mentioned since one will be able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children and families.  With regards to job opportunities that interest me, I can see myself as a possible leading personal/organizer but for the time being I am comfortable functioning as an avid advocate for early childhood, ensuring that children and families well-being are being served.  By so doing, I will be definitely making a meaningful difference in the field of early childhood.

 “Two great things you can give your children” one is roots, the other is wings.” Hodding Carte

References

University of the West Indies and Family Development and Children Research Centre: http://sta.uwi.edu/fhe/fdcrc/aboutus.asp

Servol Parent Outreach Programme

http://www.servoltt.com/parentoutreachcentre.html

Saying Farewell

For the last 8 weeks we continued fostering that extensive learning community and I must say it has assumed greater significance because we shared some very personal experiences with each other.  We have been encouraged and supported in opening our lives much more to each other and for that tremendous respect and concern were shared thus making our experiences much more meaningful. 

As we prepare to embark in our various specializations I hope we will continue to definitely find a way keep in touch.  I am on facebook so if it is possible we can keep in touch there.  It has been a tremendous learning experience with the entire group and one which has definitely left an indelible impression in my mind. I wish you all the best in your specialization areas. My area is Teaching Adults in Early Childhood.  All being well, I am also looking forward to see many if not all of you at graduation. I wish you all the best as you continue to fulfill your professional goals.

As we part at this juncture, I leave this quote with you: 

 “When you do nothing, you feel overwhelmed and powerless. But when you get involved, you feel the sense of hope and accomplishment that comes from knowing you are working to make things better.”

-anonymous

Team Building and Collaboration, Part 1

The adjourning phase of a team is that separation phase signaling the end of the project.  At this phase the group usually reflects on its accomplishments as well as shortcomings towards the attainment of the goals (O’Hair & Wiemann, 2009).  I think parting would have been more difficult for me when I was a teenager because during that phase you seek to a great extent the love and admiration of your peers.  I have come to realize that these are all phases which we go through; we meet persons, form relationships to achieve certain goals and there comes a time when we may need to go our separate ways as we continue to pursue our destiny. 

High performing groups are usually difficult to leave because there is so much happening.  Group members feel a great sense of satisfaction and eagerly look forward to making a difference.  They are highly passionate about what they do so their contribution extends well beyond the allotted time for meetings.  They have clearly established norm and the leader will remind members of these rules should there be any violation of these rules. 

I think leaving my youth group was the hardest because the members of our group bonded so well.  We made tremendous impact on the lives of persons in our community and at the same time we were developing ourselves – self concept, self-esteem, self-efficacy. There was always a hub of activities to which we channeled our energies. 

I cannot recall what closing ritual would have taken place for me in particular but generally we would end with a social evening where we would bring along eats and all members would partake. Persons would usually reminisce on the time shared and wish the persons God’s continued blessings.  

For our master’s degree I think adjourning would not be too difficult because we are some distance from each other.  Adjourning is an essential stage of teamwork because it signals the end of an era and members are moving off into different directions (Abudi, 2010).  I hope for us that moment will culminate at graduation.  I am looking forward to that moment, hoping to join many if not all of you for that culminating event, putting faces to names and definitely hoping to foster some long-term friendships. 

References

Abudi, G. (2010). The five stages of team development: A case study. Retrieved from http://www.projectsmart.co.uk/the-five-stages-of-team-development-a-case-study.html

O’Hair, D., Friedrich, G. W., & Dixon, L. D. (2011). Strategic communication in business and the professions. Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.

Nonviolent Communication and Conflict Management

About two years ago many sections of the Division of Education, Youth Affairs and Sport that were conducting business at several different buildings came together under one roof.  We now occupy a four storey building with limited parking space.  When plans were being made to have us relocated a meeting was held with the then Secretary of Education informing us of the pending changes.  I remembered asking the Secretary whether there is sufficient parking at the new building and I was told yes there are sufficient spaces for parking. 

Upon relocated we quickly realized that parking was a huge problem however, persons were able to secure spaces on a first come, first serve basis.  Shortly after, several spots were assigned to top management.  The latest situation is that areas in which parking could have been obtained are now being blocked off for company vehicles leaving many of us fending for spaces.  I was unaware of the latest development until I was informed by a worker.  When I enquired I was told that a memorandum was released debarring workers from parking in that area.  That   has left me very disappointed because no discussion took place on the issue.

In order to arrive at a reasonable solution debating the issue can be considered.  It is important that the cards be placed on the table and a variety of tactics be utilized to arrive at a solution.  They include probing.  Probing raises questions that allow for specific and precise answers (O’Hair & Wiemann, 2009).  It allows all parties to understand how each other feels with a view of arriving at cooperative conflict management.  For example, I could remind the audience of the assurance I was given in an open forum held at our previous site and discuss the hardship workers are experiencing on a daily basis in order to secure a safe park.  A compromise can also be suggested, in that, the Secretary of Education may decide to approach the owner of an adjacent piece of land with the hope of establishing an agreement so workers plight can be alleviated.

I enquired from two of my colleagues’ strategies they have learnt that have proven to be very effective in conflict resolution.  They noted that being a good listener goes a long way; restraint and exercising respect have also proven to be quite valuable.
Reference

O’Hair, D., Friedrich, G. W., & Dixon, L. D. (2011). Strategic communication in business and the professions. Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.