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Characteristics of the Effective Early Childhood Educator Essay

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This essay examines the components that contribute to being an effective early childhood educator. Effective early childhood education has been shown to be an evolving and complex process, and is influenced by many factors. These factors include a deep understanding of the theories and philosophies of many pioneering and contemporary pedagogues, such as Piaget, Montessori and Vygotsky and studies emerging from Reggio Emilia in Italy. Researchers have found, that unless the educator is working in a specific theory based environment, for example, a Montessori school, or a school where Piagetian practice is implemented, the contemporary pedagogy will base lesson plans on a selection of these theorists idea's and concepts rather than the …show more content…

This essay will expand on the above points by reviewing how previous researchers believe that educators can be effective and the effects these factors have on early childhood education.

Piaget, Frobel, Montessori and in more recent times Vygotsky, are a selection of theorists and philosophers who's idea's have helped shape the framework of early childhood eduction in Australia and other Western nations ( Edwards & Hammer, 2006). Historically these Westernised pedagogical pioneers have helped shape the contemporary early childhood curriculum based on a series of principles. These principles are evident and still relevant in contemporary teaching. Edwards and Hammer (2006) believe based on selection of these theories that childhood is a valid part of life and all learning is linked. Recognising a child's ability and acknowledging the various stages of development, and providing a safe and stimulating environment are paramount to early childhood learning. Edwards and Hammer (2006) also state that early childhood education stems from what children are capable of rather than not. They claim that self-motivation and direction is achievable and the relationships a child sustains personally are interrelated to ones education and therefore the curriculum is adjusted accordingly. Both Montessori and Piaget researched the concept of independent, self-directed and age appropriate

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