The aim of this study was to examine how teachers in the Step by Step and traditional kindergartens assess their child-centred activities. 308 teachers participated in the study and a questionnaire was used. The results of the study showed that teachers in the Step by Step programme used a child-centred approach more in their work than teachers in…

Studied how Montessori teachers accommodate young children's special needs. Phase one involved interviews and observations of several teachers, and phase two involved an extensive survey of teachers. Found that teachers' perceptions of support and collaboration, use of strategies to nurture independence, and the impact of children with challenging…

This study examines to what extent the Korean National Kindergarten Curriculum has actually influenced pre-school practices. This study explores the characteristics of the National Kindergarten Curriculum as it is implemented in Korea. It also examines pre-school teachers' perceptions, daily practice and the curriculum content in pre-school…

Classified according to the roles played by children and teachers, curriculum models for early childhood education fall into four general categories: (1) structured/programed; (2) open/interaction; (3) child-centered; and (4) eclectic. Methods and objectives of each approach are discussed. (PP)

Provides a general background on child-centered learning, focusing on topics such as "center time" and children's play. Offers suggestions that will enable early childhood teachers to implement child-centered music practices. Considers ideas on different music centers and activities for teachers interested in developing a child-centered music…

Maintains that the meaningful use of projects necessitates knowledgeable and reflective teachers with the autonomy to make intellectually honest curricular decisions in the best interest of each child. (BB)

Argues that involving children in curriculum planning develops communication, literacy, and social study skills. Describes four areas to address in the joint planning process: (1) what interests the children; (2) how to get the information; (3) what materials are needed; and (4) what materials the children and teacher will bring. (SD)

From the academic--or instructivist--perspective, the young child is seen as dependent on adults' instruction in the academic knowledge and skills necessary for a good start for later academic achievement. This perspective is in direct contrast to the active and interactive curriculum assumed by proponents of the constructivist approach. This…

Examines the impact of feminist theory on instructors and students of early childhood education. Finds that content and pedagogy together impact the classroom by emphasizing participatory, nonauthoritarian, and experiential teaching techniques and subjective, student-centered learning. Reviews research on the phases of feminist teaching and…

Maintains that there is increasing interest in the approach to art education in the Reggio Emilia schools in northern Italy. Describes the Emilia approach to early childhood education and characterizes it as child-centered and emergent. Includes a dialogue between a teacher and students using the approach. (CFR)

Units of work represent an effort on the part of the school to relate subject matter and the development of skills in the organization of children's learning about important interests, topics, or problems. The units are made by teachers with their children and are designed to fit the situation in which they are to be used. There is no single…