Perceptions of Early Childhood Education: A Cross-National Comparison

• In Event: A Global Perspective on Early Childhood Education

Abstract

There is a major focus on quality in early childhood education (ECE) in the United States. What is considered high quality and how has it shaped the early childhood field? The objective of this research is to create a cross-national comparison of ECE beliefs in Switzerland and the United States. ECE Teachers in Switzerland and the United States were interviewed to gain insight into their perspective of early childhood education. They were asked to reflect on their ideas regarding what ECE means, how children learn best, and what is most important in the early years. The interviews unveil ideals that are commonly shared in each country and how those perceptions shape and define the early childhood field in each country.

Author

• Tara Mathien, Harper College