Faculty Reflection: Changchun, China | Academic Newsletter | Seneca Polytechnic

by Pat Resnick and Jennifer Barbour, School of Early Childhood Education

in the Fall 2017 issue

In June, we were invited to participate as guest lecturers at North Eastern Normal University in Changchun, China. During this time, we presented at an International Conference and delivered three lectures to the Masters and Ph.D. students in the Early Childhood Education program.

The lectures to the Masters and Ph.D. students focused on the Ontario early years curriculum, social-emotional well-being, and supporting children with special needs. Much of the information provided students with new insights, especially related to the use of natural materials in play based learning, offering choices to children to promote self-regulation, and programming for children with diverse abilities.

The International Conference was focused on children between the ages of 0-2, which seems to be a developing area of interest in this region of China. Participants at this conference were particularly enthralled by the images and information related to forest schools and the role of the teacher. The children and educators who participate in forest school at KOLTS, King Campus, inspired much of the information contained in the presentation. A number of participants have since contacted us to learn more about forest school and to follow the KOLTS blog.

The trip was a wonderful adventure where we had the chance to gain a wider perspective about the education and culture of Changchun. This experience will lead to enhanced teaching practices and a greater appreciation of the diverse cultural and educational experiences that our international students bring to Seneca.

View the Fall 2017 issue of the Academic Newsletter.