TIME WELL SPENT 

Omg!!! As I sit this evening to write my final Blog post, I can’t believe that this is it! These last 21 months has gone by very fast and I am overly joyed that I have completed this journey. It was not so long ago that I can remember writing my first blog post and wondering if I would get it right.  I can say that as each week passed, my assignments and discussions began to challenge the way I think. My blog posts got easier and easier, leading up to this day, which I believe was time well spent…J

Over the course of time, I had the opportunity to learn much about my colleagues as they shared their lives, their views and their experiences. I was open to learn more about the world of early childhood and how I can impact the world.  

As I ponder on the things that I believe are deeply felt learnings, I must say that I was deeply impacted by the importance of my responsibility to always advocate for children and families. There are many children and families who are in need and it is important for me to fight on their behalf.

The second deeply felt learnings is the importance of accepting people for who they are. We live in a world and culture that is ever so changing and we must learn to accept others that are different.   

The third deeply felt learning was to learn more about my role as a leader within the field. This has helped to better equip me both personally and professionally. The skills and knowledge obtained only helped to strengthen my current skills, challenging me to raise the bar to that of another level.  

A long term goal that I have set in place is to continue to be a life-long learner in the field of early childhood and education. This means that I will continue to take professional courses, attend seminars and trainings to stay abreast in the field. As issues and trends continue to develop, there will always be the need to grow both professionally and personally. This is my commitment to be true to myself and to also provoke change.   

I wanted to take the time to personally say “Thank You” to all my colleagues. You have made this such a rewarding and memorable learning experience for me. From the first course, until now, it has been a pleasure getting to know and especially collaborating with you. I would like to also say “Thank You” to all my professors within the masters programs who challenged our thinking, and made us see from a critical unbiased eye. I’ve learned to see early childhood from that of a different perspective.  As we move forward and embark on a new journey, may we always remember that we are a “strong voice” waiting to be heard!  

Best Wishes!

Barbara  

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: Internationally

In search of several international organizations that work for positive social change for children and families, I have taken an interest in several. My first interest is the organization called Save the Children. I can recall growing up watching the commercials on television as they showed the many faces of children that were impoverished and starving. As I navigated through their website, I found out about how the organization came into play. Eglantyne Jebb was the founder that took on the responsibility for protesting for the lives of two children that had become emancipated after World War 1. Her voice and concern for children grew into the organization we know today. Their organization has helped millions of children that are in and out of the U.S. In review of jobs within the organization, I would like to experience making an impact in the Health and Nutrition capacity. Since there are many children that are sick, starving and impoverished, I see myself making a difference in social change that requires going on missions that would include taking food to feed children and families too fight world hunger. In order to become effective at doing this job, I believe my qualifications in effective communication, compassion and a heart for people, children and families would be required. I also would like to sponsor several children (Save the Children, 2011).

The second organization that is of interest is UNICEF. This is an organization that I am familiar with and have researched previously.  UNICEF has helped many children and families in many different countries around the world.  Their passion to fight for causes that have made an impact in the areas of education, world hunger, vaccinations, poverty and many other causes has been effective. In review of job opportunities within their organization, I would like to seek out their position offered as an Education Specialist in the country of Somalia. UNICEF’s mission is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and males candidates from all national, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities. The skills that are needed for this position would be the ability to analyze and interpret information such as policies and advocacy, able to set specific goals, the ability to prepare specific documentation for program review and approval, the ability to manage a program, review and assess documentation. The ability to effectively communicate and execute plans is essential for this position (UNICEF, (n.d).

The third organization that I reviewed was Children International. This is an international organization that fights to prevent global poverty. They focus on education, health, empowerment, and employment. Their mission simply stated is, “all working together to help kids break the cycle of poverty” (Children International, 2016). In review of their website, there were no jobs posted. However, what was offered was the opportunity to become a sponsor or donate dollars to help support the mission. The organization also offers opportunity to share their vision with others. In consideration of the skills needed to become a donor or sponsor, the need to have a heart of compassion and provide financial support is necessary (Children International, 2016). 

I was drawn to their web site because they fight for social injustices for children, families, countries and nations. Their support and cause has saved many children's lives.   

 

References:

Save the Children. (2011). Retrieved from, http://www.savethechildre.org

            hIpI4E/b.6115947/k.8D6E/Official_Site.htm

Children International. (2016). Retrieved from, https://www.children.org/see-the-impact

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). (n.d.). Retrieved November 28, 2011, from

            http://www.unicef.org/

           

 

JOB/ROLES IN THE ECE COMMUNITY:

NATIONAL & FEDERAL LEVEL  

In review of several organizations for this week’s Blog Assignment, I researched and have come across several that I have found to be of interest.  Their work has provided millions with support and educational resources that has benefited children, families and communities. The first organization is the Administration for Children & Families (ACF). The organization is part of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Its vision is geared towards children, youth, families, individuals and communities who are resilient, safe, healthy, and economically secure.  Their mission is to foster the health and well-being by providing federal leadership, partnership and resources for the compassionate and effective delivery of human services.  As a large agency, they are responsible for federal stewardship of a set of programs that provide essential services and support for millions of Americans (Administration for Children & Families, 2016).

 The second organization that appealed to me is the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC). Within my professional career, I am employed as a family child care program director.  My program encourages our FCC providers to obtain their credential as a NAFCC provider.  The organization is the only professional association dedicated solely to promoting high-quality early childhood experiences for children in the unique environment of family child care programs. Currently, there are approximately one million in-home family child care providers operating nationwide. The program is a 501(c3) non-profit association. The organization also seeks to accomplish important goals that are necessary to continue to become an elite organization. One of their goals is to ensure that family child care is the early childhood workforce.  And training and professional development offered to our providers has to make sense for the family child care environment, and be made accessible to work-life of family child care providers (NAFCC, 2016).   

The third organization that appealed to me is the International Child Resource Institute (ICRI) which is located in California. This is an organization that I was not aware of until now. I stumbled across their site as I was seeking to learn more about federal and national organizations. Their mission is “to envision a world in which all children and families are able to fulfill their greatest potential” (ICRI, 2016).  As I searched their site, I noticed that they offer a community of practice that is geared towards Early Childhood Care and Education, Children’s Rights, Maternal and Child Health, Empowerment of Women and Girls, and Grassroots Community Development. Their work is centered on the well-being of children on a national and international level. Their organization was birthed out of California but has expanded. 

 In addition to the various programs the ICRI focuses on, they have developed an advocacy program titled, I-CAN. Their motto is “if I-CAN, you can”.  Their motive is to assist any stakeholder involved in the lives of children (including parents) to become skilled advocates. I-CAN supports advocates through any array of services to ensure that advocacy for children will become year round and will lead to potentially stunning future results for children and families all over the world (ICRI, 2016).  

In review of employment, none of the organizations listed had any official job openings available. However, I did review ICRI’s team member’s positions they currently hold. One that was of interest is that of the Family Daycare Support Network Director.  This position provides nutrition education and financial support to family daycare providers within various communities. Since I already have some background knowledge in the family child care capacity, branching out into the educational resource and training capacity in the nutrition area would be an asset.   The position also requires knowledge of financial services in which skills in the administration area is needed.  This would fit into my undergrad degree in Business Administration as well as my degree in M.S. in Early Childhood Studies with the specialization in Administration, Management and Leadership. Branching out in this capacity would be a great experience and professional development experience and booster (ICRI, 2016).  

References:

Administration  for Children & Families. (2016) Retrieved from,

          http://www.acf.hhs.gov/

National Association for Family Child Care. (2016). Retrieved from

http://www.nafcc.org

International Child Resource Institute. (2016). Retrieved from,

          http://www.icrichild.org

 

 

 

 

EXPLORING ROLES IN THE ECE COMMUNITY:

LOCAL AND STATE LEVELS  

This week's assignment required that we search for organizations, agencies and/or a community of practice that is of interest.  In doing so, I came across several that I would be interested in learning more about. The Association for Early Learning Leaders (AELL) was the initial organization that I found. The organization is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) that has been serving directors, owners, and administrators of early care and education programs. AELL is committed to excellence in the field of Early Care and Education by promoting leadership development and enhancing program quality. Their goal is to strengthen the knowledge, skills and abilities of directors, owners, emerging leaders and other learning professionals to ensure quality programs for young children. In addition, their primary purpose as an organization and community of practice is "networking and collaboration" among its members and other professionals and national early childhood organizations. This is an organization that has a lot to offer and one that I would seriously become part of. Learning about groups and organizations that help further develop my passion and personal profession is a great step towards building my knowledge in the field. Membership cost is average and would be worthwhile to further pursue (AELL, 2016).

The next organization that really appealed to me is, the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundation for Early Learning (CSEFEL). The organization is part of my State’s local programs in Tennessee and part of Vanderbilt University. CSEFEL is a national resource center for disseminating research and evidence –based practices to early childhood programs across the country. CSEFEL is focused on promoting the social emotional development and school readiness of young children from birth to age 5. As a means to support their goal, the program has developed a conceptual model of evidence-based practices for promoting young children’s social emotional competence and preventing and addressing challenging behavior. The program has training materials, chat sites, resources offered to families, teachers, professionals, educators and individuals that are interested in working with young children. In consideration of this organization, training in this area would offer job opportunities as a Behavior Support Specialist that can train and educate others in working with children with challenging behaviors.  

As an international interest, I chose the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI). This is an organization that I became familiar with during one of my courses here at Walden. This organization offers a wealth of knowledge and support on issues and trends that are prevalent in international countries. Their work experience is comparable to some of our community of practice and/or organizations here in the States. ACEI is a global community of educators and advocates who unite knowledge, experience, and perspectives in order to exchange information, explore innovation, and advocate for children.  The ACEI offers a variety of programs and sponsorships all for the purpose of children and education. One target of interests is that they are also affiliated with GPCWD which is Globall Partnership on Children with Disabilities. Their mission supports inclusiveness of all children with disabilities (ACEI, 2016). 

References:

http://www.earlylearningleaders.org

http://csefel.vanderbilt.edu/about.html

http://www.acei.org/

 

FINAL BLOG

To All My Colleagues, 
 
This has been an amazing journey getting to know each of my colleagues during each course since the beginning of entering our Master classes. We are now moving on towards our specialization courses or that of something other. I wanted to send warm wishes and my appreciation for each of you as you all have shared a special part of who you are. Thank you so much for allowing me to learn from you as you opened up your heart to share your lives, your passions and your experiences. This has been an incredible journey and well worth the sacrifice. We are now more confident, more determined, and even more informed to make a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve!  If you should desire to keep in touch, I can be reached at the following email address: barbararob45@gmail.com.

 

 

 

Team Building and Adjourning   

During this week’s assignment, we had the opportunity to learn much about the five stages of developing teams. The five stages presented are all considered critical progressions that help teams become successful. The stages consist of forming, storming, norming, performing and adjourning. My involvement as a member of a group has been in both high-performing and low performing groups each resulting in different experiences and outcomes. I have found that the high-performing group that I have been involved has been the most difficult to leave because of the impactful results to include both emotionally and productively. There is an interconnectedness that has been established within the group that produces a sense of accomplishment. The connection, trust and camaraderie built and experienced is rewarding. Groups with the clearest vision are most successful because they are all focused on the common goal. Even though challenges will occur, if you remember the “why” and what it will take to see the end results, it is what it is all about at the end of the day. Within my workplace, my staff and I always make the comment of saying, “let’s take one for the team”, meaning we all work together regardless of the circumstance. There is no big “I’s or little “you”.   

Some of the closing rituals that we have put together is that of a celebration in which we have gone out to eat and celebrate the accomplishment and finality of the end result. During this dinner, we get to discuss some of our successes and challenges that were part of the developing process of the task. This is always a good way to end because we let each other know how much we appreciate what each individual has brought to the table and or group during each phase.

In pondering on the question about how I will adjourn from my colleagues during this master’s journey, I hopefully will have the opportunity to share in the ceremonial practice of receiving our degree. I plan to attend the graduation ceremony and walk across the stage to receive my diploma.  As names are being called out, I will remember who was in my class. But, just in case this does not happen in this way, I plan to send words of sentiments to all of my colleagues. Just as we practice at the end of all our classes we have an opportunity to send out “well wishes”. I can also stay in touch with those that desire through email and the Walden community and or telephone contact. This is an important aspect of networking and keeping in touch with colleagues that can help us stay abreast of what’s going on in the early childhood field. The adjourning stage is an essential stage because it actually represents the ending of the task. You get to reminisce over the process. As with anything, there is always an ending. This helps members celebrate one another and appreciate their part in making the task successful. Teams move on to do better and bigger things.

                                     “Better is the end of a thing than its beginning” (Eccl 7:8) 

 

 

New Conflict Resolution

One conflict that I would like to share is a recent issue at work with my boss. He has been my new boss for almost a little over a year and we are all getting to learn of  his  management  and communicative style. Our organization had received new guidance concerning our background check processing which is a critical piece in bringing new people on board. Unfortunately my new boss had been in the habit of keeping me out of the loop as it concerned my FCC program. This practice went on for quite some time and I became very frustrated with him as I wanted to know how to effectively communicate with him my thoughts and feelings. So, the opportunity presented itself so that I could talk to address the issue. He was not on the receive end as when I presented the issue he was preoccupied and really wasn’t listening but telling me what I wanted to hear. When I left the meeting I felt that this was an "unproductive conflict" that was not resolved (O'Hair, Wiemann, Mullin, & Teven (2015, p.214).  

The same practice was continuing and this time I had a major change with one of my trainers in my program. Due to the background check restraints, my numbers of FCC providers decreased therefore resulting in a decline in my support of a trainer. The decision was made by him (my boss) and our lead trainer to pull my training support. Rather than call me and have me come to his office and have a face to face conversation about his decision he sends me an email telling me that he was removing her altogether. To make a long story short, I found this to be unprofessional and disrespectful towards me. Later that morning, we had staff meeting and afterwards I was given the opportunity to talk to him again. I asked if I could have 2 minutes of his time, he agreed and I explained to him how I felt. It was not that I had my trainer taken away but it was because of his delivery of the news. I explained that I thought this was not right. This time I was upset but I had peace about the situation. This time, he intently listened, and I felt as if I had his undivided attention. I expressed that since he’s been my new boss that he has been so far removed from my FCC program and that I felt like he wasn’t interested. This time he listened, looked me in the eye and had apologized numerous times for being disinterested. His reasoning was that I had a program that he didn’t have to worry about or had major issues so he felt like he didn’t have to micromanage or be involved. I said this to say that this experience was frustrating and an eye-opener for me. I had to address the issue but had to go about it in a peaceable way and not be so upset or mad because he didn’t share the news of my program in the way in which I would have handled it.  Because I took some time to pray about the situation and waited to address it, he was on the receive end when he was confronted. As a result, I do receive emails and information from him more than I have ever before. 

Another strategy that I have learned is that you must go in peace and not be confrontational and judgmental. I’ve learned that healthy conflict is necessary and that it can provide positive feedback but also productive conflict. This situation has really taught me to always be mindful of how I am to not assume ideas about others and to communicate to them in a non-hostile approach. 

References 

O'Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J.  (2015). Real communication (3rd. ed). New

            York: Bedford/St. Martin's. Chapter 8, "Managing Conflict in Relationships"

 

 



 

Communication Styles Profiles 

 

This week's assignment was interesting to find out about how I communicate and how others view my communication skills. I have found that the communication skills among the three of us were pretty much in the same range. The one thing that I found that was surprising was that the Verbal Aggressiveness Scale revealed that my score was "moderate". My assessment and the assessment from my husband and colleague were the same. I totally agree with this outcome. The outcome states, "You maintain a good balance between respect and consideration for others' viewpoint, and the ability to argue fairly by attracting the facts of a position rather than the person holding that position".  Over the years I have had to learn how to effectively relate, understand, and communicate with people even when I didn't want to see their views as important as my own. 

 

The "Listening Styles Profile" assessment provided a score but did not provide a measurement as to where my scoring might fit in. But, I can say that my assessment scores will fall either into the People-Oriented, and or Action-Oriented listening style. I believe I have a little bit of both. Since there was no way of seeing where I might fall into its hard to pinpoint. One insight I have gleaned over the years is that I am concerned with how people feel and I make it a point to not disregard their feelings and opinions. However, I have also learned that I have to also keep it moving and communicate and expect clear and to-the-point communication. As a director of a program, I have to have a balance and not be so consumed with people pleasing that may hinder direction. 

 

Two important factors about communication that I have obtained is in 'listening",  "communicating information" and "showing interest". My number one priority in communicating in both my professional and personal life is to listen to what others have to say. It is really important that you give your listening ear when someone is trying to convey information. Also, it is really important to me that I keep people fully informed of any information that pertains to them. Keeping people in the loop and aware is so important as this helps to build relationships and establishes trust. This is a practice that I do within the work place. I know firsthand that there is nothing worst than not communicating and keeping people out of the loop. This causes friction and a break down in communication in the workplace and in personal affairs.  

 

References:

 

O'Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J.  (2015). Real communication (3rd. ed). New York:

Bedford/St. Martin's. Chapter 2, "Perceiving the Self and Others" (pp. 45-62, beginning with "Cognitions About Ourselves") 

 

Rubin, R. B., Palmgreen, P., & Sypher, H. E. (Eds.) (2009). Communication research measures: A sourcebook. New York: Routledge. Communication Anxiety Inventory”Verbal Aggressiveness Scale.

 

Rubin, R. B., Rubin, A. M., Graham, E. E., Perse, E. M., & Seibold, D. R. (Eds.) (2009). Communication research measures II: A sourcebook. New York: Routledge.

"Listening Styles Profile-16"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CULTURAL DIVERSITY & COMMUNICATION

As we have learned, communication is a big deal and this is what we do on an everyday basis to interconnect with others. Our world is made up of many different individuals with many different cultures that affect the way in which we can relate. Within my sphere of influence, I communicate with individuals that are different from me. Most people have a tendency to communicate with others on how intimate they are with a person. I interact with my family differently from my colleagues, coworkers, parents and children. In the past, I have found myself communicating differently with those that may have had a different culture and or background from mine. But that was because I had little interaction with them and did not know how to effectively communicate. For instance, I have a certain place where I go to have my nails done. Most of the individuals have a different ethnicity and some are unable to fully speak our language.  Most of them can speak it but just find it hard to sometimes convey what needs to be said in the English language. So, most often, what I find myself doing is when having to ask a question, I find myself speaking really slow so that they can understand me. However, if there is something that I said that they are unable to understand, I usually ask one of the other individuals that can speak the language. This is just one example that I can use but for the most part I try to treat everyone the same.

Three strategies that I can use to help me communicate more effectively is that first, I can maybe take the time to find out some of the basic words in the culture that can help me communicate and speak some of their language. When I lived in Germany and did not speak the language, I purchased a book and learned some basic key words such as hello and thank you and good morning and etc. This helped me until I became comfortable with interacting and speaking some of the words to get by.  

The second strategy that I can use is to befriend or spend time with an individual of that culture. I have also done this as this helped me to better understand their culture and have the opportunity to ask questions about the things that I wanted to learn about. Sometimes this is a better approach than assuming some things that I might see or have questions about as well.

The third strategy is that I can take the time to not carefully listen to others. I have developed the skill to become a good listener. I enjoy this but I believe this is important because everyone wants to be listened too. When you learn to listen you can learn about a person in the way in which they talk and in things that they say or not say is important.

 

NON VERBAL COMMUNICATION

For this week’s assignment, we were asked to review a television show that we normally do not watch. I just so happened to choose a show titled, “Dr. Ken”. I have never heard of, nor have seen the show before but was flipping through the channel listing to find a show to record. First, I must say that having to intentionally watch a show with the volume muted was quite interesting. From what I could observe, the show is centered on a doctor who is of Asian descent and his family which consists of a wife and two children. The show also involves co-workers and or his colleague of doctors in a hospital setting. When the show first came on I noticed that Dr. Ken was sitting at the kitchen table eating and having a verbal conversation with a woman who may be his wife. As he is eating, she is talking and going through pieces of mail. She opens one piece, reads it and then looks at him and asks a question with a serious look on her face.  As she  is speaking, he never looks up but he laughs and makes a comment. She still has the look of seriousness on her face and begins to continue to glare at him.  The scene then switches to a hospital setting where Dr. Ken is communicating with several people in the area. He walks over to one doctor and asks a question, she replies with a nod and he appears to be laughing and making comments. One moment he begins to dance as I can tell that the show has lots of humor in it. The next scene is shown as Dr. Ken is having a physical done by one of his colleagues. As the scene continues, all throughout the episode there is a lot of non-verbal facial expressions, such as head nodding, arm and hand gestures, looks of frustration, disgust, happiness and lots of eye contact all used as ways to communicate.  Body language was also viewed throughout the show. It also appeared that Dr. Ken did a lot of dance moves to bring about a funny and playful interaction.

After viewing the show without the voice, I then watched the show with the volume. Some of my observations and assumptions appeared correct. It appears Dr. Ken’s wife was looking for insurance and asked him when was the last time he had a physical. It was determined that he had not so he had to ask one of his colleagues to conduct one so that they could get approved. Throughout the screening which consisited of a many different checks, it was determined that he had good health but that he was stressed. He figured that his wife was his “stressor” and he told her so. She took offense and became offended because she said she wasn’t the case of his stress. Come to find out that it was the children that were the stressors because of the issues they had going on. His wife helped him to figure this out but leading up to the end of the show, their communication of verbal and non-verbals were expressive.  At the end which was nice both verbal language and non verbals were used. They made up by talking and listening to each other and then making up with a kiss.

Conducting this exercise was a learning experience as it takes much attention to detail to really look at the ways in which communication is conveyed. Everyday individuals learn to communicate whether by listening, hearing, speaking, kinetics, gestures or use of nonverbal means of communication to get messages out so that they are understood. 

 

COMPETENT COMMUNICATION

     This week’s assignment required that we identify someone that we know of that demonstrates competent communication skills. In thinking about who I would identify, I came up with my good friend Yolanda. She has been endowed with this gift.  Yes, I say gift. I always thought that certain people just have that knack for being a competent communicator and especially one that is always in front of crowds and audiences.  Yolanda is a retired Lt. Colonel from the U.S.  Army and has been trained and groomed in speaking in front of crowds both large and small. Not only was she great in the military, she works as financial advisor and is now holding Leadership Conferences in woman’s ministry.   Yolanda has the ability to take a subject and break it down or explain it in such a way that it becomes as simple as can be. She brings clarity and acceptance. When she speaks, she demands for the audience’s attention. Although she doesn’t have a loud voice, her voice is mellow and has an even pitch. Her voice isn’t boring but is easy to listen and follow and keeps your focus. What makes her competent and effective is that she is also a great listener. When she’s asked a question, and someone responds, she is able to understand their meaning. Listening well is a skill that takes practice. Sometimes when people speak they oftentimes do not say what they mean. Her ability to read between the lines and convey what one has not said is effective. She also is animated when telling stories that will leave the audience with much laughter. Another aspect is that Yolanda has the ability to speak to any type of cultural context. Whether that audience is corporate, casual, social, military, she can adapt and adjust to that cultural setting. Having the ability to operate in this capacity is what I call effective.  When she begins her trainings, she is also able to take the elephant out of the room and people instantly become relaxed and at ease.

      Watching my friend in action is encouraging and inspiring to me.  Yolanda has the skills that I would like to develop and possess. She has established that confidence to go before audiences and crowds, of various genders, faces, and races and keep them interested.  Developing the practice of keeping audiences engaged is a great communicative practice that I would like to model.  

 

 

PROFESSIONAL HOPES AND GOALS

One hope that I have when I think about working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds is that every early childhood professional will become mentally and educationally prepared to embrace every child and every family that is different. As we learn to become more accepting, we intentionally begin to break every hidden barrier that is existent within the culture.

A goal that I would like to set for the early childhood field with regards to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice is to create an atmosphere that is non-judgmental within every early childhood sphere of influence that would promote acceptance, promote tolerance and promote awareness of the many social identities that are existent and viewed as controversial. By learning to embrace and interact with many of the cultural differences this would promote personal growth and development and break every hidden barrier that is prevalent in the field.  

Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to all of my colleagues and our professor for making this a memorable learning experience during these past eight weeks. I appreciate your transparency, your insight, and your willingness to share your personal experiences with us throughout the course to help bring clarity and understanding of those difficult and challenging issues we had to discuss.

 

 

Welcoming Families From Around the World 

 My early childhood setting takes place within a child care center. I have received word that the child of a family who has recently emigrated from a country I know nothing about will join my group soon. In preparation, I prepare myself to welcome the child and her family. Luckily, I have enrolled in a course about diversity and have learned that in order to support families who have immigrated I need to know more than surface facts about their country of origin.

The name of the country of origin I chose is “Aruba”.  This is a country that I know little about except that many Americans tour this country and I have heard that the weather is beautiful. I wanted to know more about the culture, people and country to see what it has to offer.

Some of the ways in which I can prepare myself to be culturally responsive towards the family is that I would begin to read about the culture and language via various resources.  I would look to find what significance the country and culture has.  In particular, the country is both multi-lingual and multi-cultural. There are 4 different languages spoken to include, Dutch, Spanish, Papiamento, and English.  Familiarizing myself with some of the basic terminology in these languages (English, Dutch and Spanish) would be a start and would help me to understand the family dynamics. Another approach would be to learn of some of the cultural meanings. I would find and gather items that represent the country and place them in the day care room and ensure that the family/child has some things that they can identify with that is familiar to them. I would also see if I could find someone that is familiar with the culture/language and probe and ask questions that would help me to communicate and understand the family better.  I would also want to find out more about the family and would have them fill out a questionnaire prior to me meeting with them. This would help me to at least see ahead of time some of the family’s interests and needs which would help with the interview and personal contact.  

 All of these practices will allow me to become better prepared, acquainted and possibly feel more at ease if I prepared ahead of time and take the time to find out about the family. Learning about their likes, dislikes, customs, and/or things that we may do or not do that may be offensive is well worth exploring prior to my visit with the family. 

 

 

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

One experience that I would like to personally share is many years ago when my oldest daughter was younger we took a family vacation to Disney World. At the time, my daughter was probably about three or four years of age and was in a stroller.  As you can imagine the theme park can be overcrowded with droves and droves of people.  During this time the parade was just getting started and my daughter could not see all of the Disney characters because she was in the stroller. As people normally do, we pushed our way into the crowd so that we could get a good view.  As all the people were moving forward there was this white man who was beside me who blurted out “stay in the back where you belong you black bi---” and pushed me forward into the crowd.  Well needless to say, my husband who was behind me did not take to kindly to this as he reacted and pushed the man back and told him not to put his hands on his wife. The man then glared at my husband and continued to push his way to the other side into the crowd. 

This particular incident diminished equity when the man called me out of my name. His deliberate racial behavior, attitude and statement removed all opportunities to promote peace. This deliberate hostile act is known as a microassault which was discussed during Dr. Sue’s media segment on micro-aggressions (Laureate Education, 2011).

The emotional feelings that I experienced on that day was that of anger, fear and sadness. I became angry because this man disrespected me and thought that it was okay to call me out of my name and then push me. I was also angry because he thought that he was in some way superior to me and that hatred was in his heart. My heart became fearful because my husband became enraged and pushed him back in order to protect me.  I was afraid that this was going to lead into a bad situation. So I calmed my husband down and talked him into not taking this incident any further. It took me a while to let that incident go but I was saddened by the fact that racism still existed and that this man had this amount of hatred and anger in his heart.   

In this situation in order to bring about equity the man that pushed me would have had to have a softened heart. His behavior and superiority mentality of how he viewed me as a black woman would have had to change. However, I chose to not stay angry and not to hold a grudge against this man and others that are ignorant just as he was. I chose not to develop and or hold onto racial attitudes and behaviors because I had a bad experience and a victim of someone else's prejudices. I believe that this situation helped me to grow and become more tolerant of other people’s ignorance.

Practicing Awareness of Microaggressions

This week’s blog assignment was interesting to me as I was able to learn about the topic of micro aggressions and its impact it has on so many individuals, class, gender, and races, etc.  I’ve learned that some behaviors and remarks are unintentional and some are regarded as intentional/deliberate prejudices that people have and think about others. During this week’s observations, I was able to witness a form of “microaggression” that was played out as a deliberate insult towards a particular person. One of my colleagues whose office is next to mine is a heavy-set white female who is working on losing weight and is doing a great job at it. She works out every day and is consistent at it.  She has lost a tremendous amount of weight and is still keeping her goals before her. This week I overheard two of her employees talking and laughing about her and how she works out all the time and is still heavy. The comment and assumption made by one lady was that she is fat and they can bet on it that her house is not clean and that she is a “lazy” person.  This was a microaggression in the form of a microassault with an assumption and/or prejudice against fat  and/or heavy-set people.

My emotion towards this assumption was that I was a little taken aback with the comment made. I felt like the comment was unfair and that they should give her more credit for her discipline in sticking to working out and eating properly because my colleague has been working on her weight for a little over a year and has and is looking good. She shared with me that she enjoys food but her health was getting the best of her and that she needed to work on herself. Sometimes people’s assumptions and judgment on others are inconsiderate and harsh. I also felt that they made an unfair judgement about her. To assume that her home is unclean and that she is lazy is unfair. She actually is a very organized person and when it comes to her weight this is something she struggles with as we all have some issues that we need to work on.

My observation this week has reminded me that our society has a long way to go and that people are cruel, and are prejudice. I have been subject to prejudices as a victim and as an unintentional offender. However, when I read of and am reminded of their existence it makes me do better and become a better person in keeping my comments and assumptions to myself. But more importantly, it allows me to be open minded, compassionate and accepting of others even the more.

 

 Perspectives On Diversity and Culture 

  

This week's blog assignment allowed me the opportunity to sit and talk to three friends/colleagues on their perspectives on diversity and culture and how it relates to their world. Many of the responses were similar but because each person is unique in their own rite, expression of their culture and diversity took on a different meaning. 


My initial discussion took place with one of my colleagues whose responses and ideas were similar to what I have read during this past week. She stated, "culture is important because it is what we bring into our families. Things such as my traditions, holidays that I celebrate or choose not to celebrate, my traits and/or behaviors that I have. I think they are the way in which I act and/or respond to certain situations. My interaction and my beliefs and religion. My culture is my connection to self and my family's roots.  Her perspective on diversity is that, "it is being able to adapt to the environment and people you are around and being accepting of others. It is a way of connecting with people"(M. Hemington, personal communication, Nov 12, 2015). 
 
My second conversation consisted of a discussion with my friend who is a Reading Specialist and Elementary School teacher. Her perspective regarding culture and diversity as an African American female. She states, "culture is the make up of characteristics that are shared within families and relationships. They represent beliefs, views and standards that are practiced and applied to families. It also means being proud to be part of a family/culture that represents who we are.  My definition of diversity for me simply means a melting pot of differences"(S.Thompson, personal communication, Nov 11, 2015).  

  
My last discussion was done with my friend/colleague who shared her experience growing up in America and in an area that was not diverse in culture and ethnicities. She states, "culture to me is everything. It means the way in which my grandmother woke us up in the morning to the way in which we celebrated holidays. It also represented our communicative ways with others. It affected the clothes that we were allowed to wear or not, and the way in which we traveled on vacations. I believe diversity is being able to see beyond color and gender. But being able to look into people's thoughts, actions, and their soul of who they are. Growing up, I was not able to see different ethnicities but after the age of 12, I was able to really see the world and see other people that were also part of a world that I had no idea of. I enjoy the differences that people have (T. Heath, personal communication, Nov 13, 2015). 
  

One aspect that I was surprised that was not mentioned is the aspect of food. Food is usually a huge expression of culture. Regardless of the ethnicity, many cultures enjoy sharing this part of their heritage. Food is a way of sharing and building relationships with individuals. Another aspect that was not mentioned but is of importance is religion. Culture does also represent religion. This is big for me as this represents my faith. There are many individuals that do not really practice and/or believe what I believe but this is what makes us different and does affect "diversity".  
 

In conducting these discussions and receiving feedback from my colleagues, I have been influenced by the fact that culture and diversity has different meanings and understanding for many people in different ways. It was interesting to hear my colleagues discuss and share about their personal life experiences and express their feelings on their concepts and share their experiences. I've enjoyed learning of and getting to know my colleagues in a more personal view as they shared their perspectives. Again, for me, accepting people as they are and being open and willing to let them express who they are is something that I am comfortable with doing. 

 

                                                   

MY FAMILY CULTURE 

 

Never in a million years would I imagine having to go through a major catastrophe such as what has been described during this week's blog assignment. However, there have been many people and families that have experienced this situation of being displaced and having to start all over. The three items that would be near to my heart that would represent my family culture would be as follows: 

 

• The first item I would grab would be my scrap book of all our family photos. Within this book would be all of our family pictures that would represent my family heritage. This scrap book would include pictures of family members from my maternal and paternal side of the family.   
• The next item for me would be my "bible" that was given to me by my mother over some 30 plus years ago.      
• The next item would be my grandmother's wedding ring that was given to me by my dad. It represents her legacy, as I did not have the opportunity to meet her. She passed away before I was born and since I was the only daughter on my father's side this was passed down to me.     

For those that would be interested in knowing my story, I would take the time to share with them each of the three memorabilia's and the story of why and how each are significant. I would start with my family photos and share who each one is in our family. I would then share about my bible and how it has impacted my life. The last thing I would share would be the piece of jewelry that was given to my by my dad and that it represents my grandma's legacy.

My feelings would be very emotional if I had to choose only one of the items. All would be hard to leave behind as each one represents a part of my life and culture. My pictures would help me be reminded of the images and faces of family members that are a part of our family. My bible would represent my faith walk. And, my grandmother's piece of jewelry would help remember who she is.

As a result of this exercise, I have been reminded of just how precious life is and at one drop of a dime life can be interrupted with a catastrophe. However, through the years and with the encouragement of many strong men and women, I have been given the gift of "faith" and hope in Christ. This experience for me and my family has been our cultural experience that has been handed down from many generations. I realize that not all people and cultures practice my religion, but this is my cultural experience that makes me unique and different from others.

                                           When I Think of Research...
 
During the past 8 weeks of Building Research and Competencies, I have learned a wealth of knowledge concerning the research design process.  There were many new insights that I had no knowledge of, but became familiar with the concepts that would help conduct a research study. I was able to familiarize the differences between quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods approach. I've learned the various types of the triangulation process that helps to validate a research study. Topics such as ethics and many other approaches which all helped me to understand the process. 

My ideas about research has changed tremendously.  I had no idea about the amount of time and effort that goes into initiating and formulating a study. Learning step by step methods and approaches in bringing the study altogether from beginning to end. There are so many check and balances that need to be measured and so many ways to try to prove the methods for accuracy.

I've have learned valuable approaches in the planning, designing, conducting and most importantly the relationship connection which is so important. My biggest challenge was actually narrowing my research question down during the two weeks that required us to find a quantitative and qualitative question regarding our topic.  Each week I found myself refining and changing my question.  I like the fact that my classmates were able to provide feedback and also helped me to see my question and their approach from a different perspective.
 
Some of the ways that my perception of an early childhood professional have been modified as  a result of this course is that I have learned to see research in a different light.  I know that I am required to remain open and as a life-long learner in the field of early childhood.  As a professional, in my everyday world I have to intently think about and stay abreast of the various issues and trends that impact the early childhood field in terms of research and more. 

 I  would like to say thank you to all of my colleagues who participated in this group and a big thank you to Dr. Parrish who challenged us and pushed us to think beyond the research process during these past 8 weeks of class. 

                                                  
 RESEARCH AROUND THE WORLD

This week's Blog Assignment required that we navigate through several international Early Childhood websites that were of interest. I selected, the European Early Childhood Education Research Association (EECERA). This organization is said to be the largest international early childhood organization and is comparable to that of the National Accreditation for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). 
In review of the site, some of the current international topics I found were topics that talked about, gender differences and the male/female roles in early childhood education, the use of technology with children under five years of age, video observations of children's perspectives on their lived experiences and challenges in relationships between researcher and children, scaffolding and how to increase development and also articles on the influence of children and play. Their website offers a host of journals filled with research articles in early childhood and development. 
     Some surprising facts that I've gleaned is that the organization offers authors the opportunity to have their work published and read. Information that is posted and archived on the international site is selective and is one of four early years journal indexed by the Institute for Scientific Information.
     Other noteworthy information I found on the website is that the site offers a section titled "Special Issues" or monographs. This link offers archived articles that focus on topics or developments in the early childhood field such as:
    1). up-to-date overview of current knowledge and developments in the field, and an evaluation of relevant empirical studies
    2). presentation of new developments, applications or policy implications.
    3). the development of new research methodology

These topics all provide insight on new developments within the early childhood field within an international scope. In addition, the site offers other information regarding various cultural differences that affect many ethnicities and many countries. 

References:

European Early Childhood Education Research Association (2015). Retrieved from,

         http://www.eecera.org/journal/