The Influences of Family, Culture, and Society in Early Childhood course has helped me develop a stronger appreciation for research and writing. At the beginning, I had intentions of improving writing skills. However, I am now more motivated to use my research skills to conduct more adequate research. While in this course, I have learned from colleagues, and the plethora of knowledge that I have gained from colleagues and learning resources has strengthened my wanting to teach more effectively. More important, I now understand that what I do and how I do it makes a difference in the eyes of the children and families I serve.
From the learning resources, I have gained a sense of what others have faced being from different cultural backgrounds. Media sources with information on Marsha Hawley and Shaun-Adrian Chofla helped me appreciate my unique differences and understand that I can move pass hardships of former years. In contrast, literature resources by Sanchez, Walsh, and Rose (2011) increased my awareness of how educators can "create more meaningful school ad home communication" (p. 20). Other literature resources like Edwards and Graham (2009) have heightened my awareness of family and the importance understanding family communication. Hence, the family is the social unit that takes responsibility for the socialization and nurturing of the child (Edwards & Graham, 2009).
As an early childhood professional, using these resources will help me approach children and their families with an open mind. Moreover, I can attend to their concerns culturally competent, respecting their manner of approaching the concerns. More important, I understand that I must assess and/or reflect on personal beliefs and values that include biases and prejudices as well as how I view diversity and culture (in connection with my relationships with others) (Lee, 2010).
From the learning resources, I have gained a sense of what others have faced being from different cultural backgrounds. Media sources with information on Marsha Hawley and Shaun-Adrian Chofla helped me appreciate my unique differences and understand that I can move pass hardships of former years. In contrast, literature resources by Sanchez, Walsh, and Rose (2011) increased my awareness of how educators can "create more meaningful school ad home communication" (p. 20). Other literature resources like Edwards and Graham (2009) have heightened my awareness of family and the importance understanding family communication. Hence, the family is the social unit that takes responsibility for the socialization and nurturing of the child (Edwards & Graham, 2009).
As an early childhood professional, using these resources will help me approach children and their families with an open mind. Moreover, I can attend to their concerns culturally competent, respecting their manner of approaching the concerns. More important, I understand that I must assess and/or reflect on personal beliefs and values that include biases and prejudices as well as how I view diversity and culture (in connection with my relationships with others) (Lee, 2010).
References
Edwards, A. P., & Graham, E. E.
(2009). The relationship between individuals' definitions of family and
implicit personal theories of communication. Journal of Family
Communication, 9(4), 191–208.
Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
Lee, S. (2010). Reflect on your
history: An early childhood education teacher examines her biases.Multicultural
Education, 17(4), 25–30.
Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
Sanchez, C., Walsh, B. A., & Rose,
K. (2011). DVD Newsletters: New ways to encourage communication with families. Dimensions
of Early Childhood, 39(2), 20–26.
Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
Hi Regnenia,
ReplyDeleteYou are so correct about the effectiveness of using research in our practices. Like you, I learned the importance of constantly seeking current research to stay current on my practices, and to see what the trends are. Thank you for sharing.
I admire your enthusiasm in connecting with parents and students Jessica. This, in turn shows your willingness to educate others and help others stay connected to current happenings.
DeleteRegenia,
ReplyDeleteI agree that we must be culturally competent as ECE professionals and have an open mind when we are working with the families of the children in our care. Reflection is a wonderful tool to use daily in our personal and professional lives. I believe as long as we are willing to reflect and change as needed , we are on the path to growth and discovery.
Carlotta,
DeleteGrowth and discovery are two key concepts of which I was once afraid. Now that I have experienced some unexpected life changes in and out of the classroom, growth and discovery are not so bad. As I reflect, I consider the moments that I needed reassurance that what I am doing is right for me. After communicating with each of you through discussion, I am motivated to go beyond what I expect.