THE GENDER EQUALITY IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PROJECT

Educational Institution/Organization

Various schools in Finland

Location

Finland

Area/s of intervention

Workforce, Curriculum

Objective

The main objective of the Practice is to increase awareness of the idea and practices of gender sensitivity and gender equality in the Finnish-speaking early childhood education field through research, training, and statements regarding educational policies.w perspective on this issue.

Short description of the activities

The Gender Equality Early Childhood Education project has observed how gender equality and inequality appear in the practices of ECEC in Finland. Based on the observations, a self-study webpage was published in 2014, including checklists, educational materials and various practical resources to promote gender equality. During the recent years, the project has been focused on in-service training for ECEC staff. Alongside live lectures, the project has been running a six-week online course. The online course includes theory and short lectures, knowledge of legislation and curriculums from the standpoint of gender equality, observation tasks the participants need to perform at their workplaces and a final essay that includes gender equality planning. The participants do self-assessment at the beginning and at the end of the training.

The Practice has contributed to

Support the professionalisation of staff working in ECEC contexts, including managerial staff

Enhance the development of curricula based on pedagogical goals, values and approaches that enable children to reach their full potential in a holistic way.