Professionalism in early childhood education
Graduation Date
2009
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Other
Program
Thesis (M.A.)--Humboldt State University, Education, 2009
Committee Chair Name
Ann Diver-Stamnes
Committee Chair Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Keywords
Professionalism, Infant/toddler teacher, ECE, Career ladder, Early childhood education, Pre-school teacher, Cognitive dissonance, Self-perception, Humboldt State University -- Theses -- Education
Abstract
In this explorative research project, data from questionnaires, interviews, and a focus group was collected and analyzed in order to explore aspects of the self-perception of professionalism in the field of early childhood education. Data was analyzed using three overarching themes that emerged in the literature: defining the profession, action and advocacy in the profession, and self-perceptions of early childhood educators. The data revealed that these three themes have significant inconsistencies that contribute to a state of disequilibrium and dissonance experienced among early childhood educators, creating obstacles to the move toward greater professionalism in the field of early childhood education.
Recommended Citation
Watts, Jacinda M., "Professionalism in early childhood education" (2009). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 1089.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/1089
https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/concern/theses/st74cs73w