CREATING NEW PATHWAYS FOR DIALOGUE: COLLABORATION OF DIVERSE VOICES

Authors

  • Annie White California State University, Channel Islands

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55370/hsdialog.v19i3.495

Keywords:

Early Head Start, collaboration, partnership, school readiness, learning stories, Journey of Discoveries

Abstract

Early Head Start is based on the assertion that all children have explicit needs and benefit from a comprehensive developmental program. Children benefit when families and educators work together to support young children’s development. Yet, research indicates parents and educators often do not collaborate about children’s education and can have negative impact on school readiness. This project studied EHS programs that have utilized narrative observations referred to as, Journey of Discoveries to examine collaboration between parents and teachers. The qualitative case study used interview transcripts from three EHS programs. Findings revealed four central themes: (a) connection, (b) partnership, (c) building of relationship, and (d) the value of shared understanding. Findings showed Journey of Discoveries creates a pathway of collaboration for EHS teachers and parents by capturing children’s learning and development through the sharing of narrative observations.

Author Biography

Annie White, California State University, Channel Islands

Dr. Annie White has 18 years work experience with Head Start, in various roles as, home visitor, family advocate, child development specialist, curriculum and training specialist, and EHS Childcare Partnership Manager.  Dr. White has participated on national and international studies, including Reggio Emilia & Pistoia, Italy, Budapest, Hungary and Auckland, New Zealand.  Dr. White is a life longer learner and holds a doctorate in Leadership in Education from University of California, Davis. Currently, Dr. White is an Assistant Professor with the Early Childhood Studies program at California State University, Channel Islands.

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Published

2017-02-20

Issue

Section

Research Articles