How Male Early Childhood Educators Construct Their Professionalism

• In Event: Roundtable Session 4
  In Roundtable Session: Early Childhood Teacher Preparation and Professional Development

Abstract

Defining male professionalism in early childhood education is elusive. Caring is the central component of early childhood professionalism, yet its manifestations are often unavailable to male workers who fear accusations of pedophilia. This multiple case study examines how six male early childhood workers from different countries construct professionalism through narratives and observed practice. Their ethos of caring included addressing children's emotional needs in a variety of manners, including intimacy through eye contact and questioning. Conventional touching was found along with a constellation of other aspects of professional behavior including enthusiasm, charisma, play, and nurturing independence, daring, and higher order thinking. This study expands on previous research by identifying seemingly universal components of male professionalism in early childhood education.

Author

• David L Brody, Efrata College of Education