Not having
heard from an international contact, I explored the website of UNESCO. UNESCO is an organization which leads the
international policy drive for an integrated ECCE system that embraces both the
well-being and holistic development of children. They are of the view that ECCE is not merely
a preparatory stage for transition to formal schooling but rather looks at it
in a broader context of social development, gender equity and poverty reduction. During my exploration I gained the following
insights in relation to my goals.
·
UNESCO strives to promote access and
equity in the EC field. Many
participating countries are committed to ‘expanding and improving early
childhood care and education especially for the most vulnerable and
disadvantaged children’. Likewise
governments are being urged to extend equitable access to quality early
childhood programs making policies favourable to poor children.
·
UNESCO promotes quality education. They are of the view that ECCE programs
should emphasize children’s holistic development. Additionally, they believe that high quality
child care especially for the disadvantaged children fosters motivation,
confidence, good cognitive and linguistic development.
·
Many participating countries face
challenges as it relates to investment and financing. Countries have difficulties in expanding and
improving the quality of ECCE due to limited resources. This is more daunting in the developing
countries as EC is more likely to be overshadowed by priorities such as
universal primary education.
http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/strengthening-education-systems/early-childhood/)
I do believe that UNESCO is a great organization. Great choice
ReplyDeleteZephirina,
ReplyDeleteI also was unable to make international contacts; however, I found the UNESCO website to be very insightful regarding international issues and trends in early childhood. I really like how UNESCO consistently states throughout the website that education is a basic human right. For people in the United States, this may seem like an abstract reality, as education is readily available throughout the nation. UNESCO provides information on the disparities of education in many developing countries. I enjoyed reading your insights, and thank you for sharing.
Pamela
Zephirina,
ReplyDeleteI love that they strive for access and equity in care. This is what we have been discussing and learning about. In the countries without adequate resources it stands to be very extraordinary that they are bringing this to the people to be heard. This matters. It is important.
Catherine