Time Well Spent

“I think... if it is true that

there are as many minds as there

are heads, then there are as many

kinds of love as there are hearts.”

― Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina

Throughout this program, I have learned many lessons. There are, however, three lessons that have impacted me very deeply. The first lesson that was learned that impacted me very deeply is that differences need to be embraced, shared, and cultivated within the early childhood environment. The second lesion that was learned that impacted me very deeply is that one person can make a difference even is he or she does not believe so. The final lesson that was learned that impacted me very deeply is that early childhood educators, children, and care givers all need to be reminded of the importance of an anti-biased environment and educated about anti-bias education on a regular basis. Essentially, all of us never stop learning or growing.

Looking forward, there is one long-term goal that I have established. That goal is to continuing to learn, question, and grow. In order to have a positive impact on the field of early childhood, it is essential for other professionals and I to remain humble, curious, and inquisitive on how we can maximum the potential of all young children.

In closing, I would like to say “thank you” to everyone in this class and the program that have assisted me in the process of learning, growth, and development. I also wish Professor Davis and everyone in the class the best of luck in their personal and professional lives now and in the future. This program has been challenging, eye opening, and educational all at the same time. Not only am I thankful for this experience, but better for it.

Mary Ruple 

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: Internationally

After reviewing many international organizations or community of practice, three were found to be of interest.

The first international organization or community of practice that was found to be of interest to me was the International Bullying Prevention Organization at http://www.stopbullyingworld.org/. This organization is of interest of me for a couple reasons. First, my Capstone Project is focused on reducing and preventing the bullying of disabled children. Second, Bullying is a growing concern on a global scale for all types of young children. This organization allows professionals to become involved in the advocacy process on a worldwide basis and provides them with research and resources in order to address this challenge at a local level.

The second international organization or community of practice that was found to be of interest to me was the Disability Rights & Defense Fund at http://www.dredf.org/. In addition to be applicable to my Capstone Project, this organization is also applicable to me on a professional level. This international organization and community of practice was also of interest to me because it provides early childhood professionals with access to events, research & publications, peer support, and advocacy initiatives on a local, state, federal, and international level.

The final international organization or community of practice that was found to be of interest to me was UNICEF at http://www.unicef.org/. This international community of practice was of interest to me because it allows early childhood professionals to become more educated on and involved in providing disadvantaged and impoverished children around the world with the rights and resources needed in order to experience healthy growth and development. It is believed that this is imperative for every child in the world.

There are several international job opportunities that are of interest to me.

The first position would be a researcher for the publications produced for the International Bullying Prevention Organization. Skills and qualifications needed for this position would include a passion for anti-bulling, research and analytical skills, writing skills, and education or background in early childhood.  The second position of interest to me would be a conference organizer for the NAEYC. Skills and qualifications needed for this position would include a passion and background of early childhood, excellent written and verbal communication skills, time management, and event organizational experience. The final position that would be of interest for me is anti-bulling program trainer for early childhood facilities around the world. Skills and qualifications needed for this position would include the ability to speak several different languages, a passion and background in early childhood, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and teaching or training experience.

References

Disability Rights & Defense Fund. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.dredf.org/.

International Bullying Prevention Organization. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.stopbullyingworld.org/.

UNICEF. (2012). Retrieved from  http://www.unicef.org/