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Personal Narrative: How My Attributes For Enhancing Children

1086 Words5 Pages

What are my attributes for enhancing children's 'lived experiences'?

This essay discusses the important aspects of the journey which have shaped the personal attributes identified that enhance children's lives and education. Firstly, looking at the South African education system as well as the constitution, Unicef (2016) statistics and how this culture influenced my teaching style. Secondly, it explores different styles of learning and theories such as Piaget (1983) and Vygotsky (1978) discussing how my personal pedagogy has developed from these theorists. Next, examining the personal qualities as well as values I assert that enhances children's learning. Following on from that, considering skills still requiring improvement. Finally, discussing …show more content…

However schools in South Africa receive a grant from government which most schools have to supplement in the form of school fees in order to employ qualified teachers. In addition, there is no limit to the amount of fees that schools may set therefore, preventing poorer children from attending affluent schools. Creating a divide within society, to the educational experience that children receive. Schools in affluent areas are able to maintain their own sports fields, offer extra mural activities, at a cost and a multitude of opportunities throughout children's education. But it must also be considered, that children are aware of the contrast in educational opportunities and are taught to fight for a life filled with opportunities, to not expect or take for granted. Creating a competitive society that is aggressive in their need to succeed. My culture is shaped by having been educated in South Africa where you are lucky if you receive a quality education and leave school literate. According to Unicef (2016) the gross enrolment ratio of pre-primary school participation is 65% from 2008-2012. The influence of childhood can inhibit a person however, at the same time, creates insight others from the local culture might not …show more content…

Prior to embarking on the foundation degree in Early Years I advocated that there was little room for play within the classroom. Maintaining that a formal, linear thinking approach to educating children created effective learning. However, whilst doing my portfolio, reflecting on my Topic as well as well as investigating the resource to produce and the pamphlet to inform parents it has become apparent that I have been transformed in my thinking as well as my pedagogy due to this research and theorist identified during my studies. Theorists who have influenced my new pedagogical approach include Maria Montessori (Montessori and Costelloe, 1972) who elaborated on Karl Groos's (2007) theory, with both theorists asserting that 'play is the child's work' and children would be better off if they learnt through play and imagining. Furthermore Piaget (2002) focused on intellectual development, discussing how intellect develops through stages, transforming to meet the requirements of the environment, reflecting that this can be done through play or work. However, it is Vygotsky's (Gray and MacBlain, n.d.) social development theory which has continually impacted my professional practice in recent months. The theory suggests that children can reach their ability level through the help of adults or more able peers. Referring to the zone of proximal development,

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