Refugee and immigrant families: Pathways to belonging through early childhood education

Session Type: Invited Speaker Session

Abstract

The three papers in this symposium will discuss findings from two research projects focusing on the role of early childhood education (ECE) in supporting belonging of refugee and immigrant families in Aotearoa New Zealand. The intention is to build theory with exemplars, that will generate improved understandings of bicultural belonging in Aotearoa New Zealand for refugee and immigrant families. This research is transformative in generating critical thinking and shifts in understanding in order to support more inclusive and diverse societies.

Sub Unit

• International Aligned Associations / New Zealand Association for Research in Education - NZARE

Chair

• Bronwen Cowie, University of Waikato

Papers

• Working in solidarity with refugee children, families and community in ECE settings - Linda Mitchell, The University of Waikato

• Pōwhiri as a metaphor for bicultural belonging - Lesley Kay Rameka, University of Waikato

• Reflecting on ECE practice to promote belonging through digital storytelling - Elaine Khoo, The University of Waikato

Discussant

• Bronwen Cowie, University of Waikato