Question

Discuss the major theoretical differences between child-centered and teacher-directed early childhood education programs. What theories underlie child-centered programs?

  What theories underlie teacher-directed programs? What does each type of program emphasize in its work with young children?

Now imagine you have been hired as an educational consultant to the president of the United States. What policy would you recommend to the federal government concerning preschool education? What children should be targeted How much government involvement should there be? Who will bear the cost of these programs? (Be sure to take into consideration the research presented in this chapter).

Answer 1

In teacher centered early education teacher is the central kwoledge and the teacher transmit knowledge to students, The students are fully focussing on the teacher ,simply listening to the teacher who talks and receiving the information.

Theoretical background

Teacher centered education rely heavily on the Behaviorist theory which was based on the idea that behavior changes are caused by external stimuli.

In child centered preschool the teacher will plan the lesson based on the children's interest and learning is play oriented.

The charecteristics of child centeredlpre shool are , the classroom may be devided in to sections. There will be art, maths, science, dramatic play etc with free access for the children.The set up of the classroom will be in a natural way, there will be sufficient lighting and air circulation, the classroom will be neat and attractive , the walls of the classroom will be adorned with children's art work.

Theoretical background

Child centered education is based on the constuctivist theories of education. According to this theory children cognitively construct knowledge and meaning through their experiences and interactions. and not by rote memorization.

Differece between Child centered and teacher centered education

In CCE (Child centered education) every thing is learned through play based activities, first hand and hand on experience.Activities done in the classroom is always focussed on the process of learning,

Teachers at child centered pre schools need to have a good knowledge about the human development and have to  understand that the concepts learned at the early stages can defenitely affect, the way people learn and process information when they are older.These teachers take in to account the long term effects than the short term effects such as passing the examination.and scoring high marks.Teachers foccuss mostly on teaching ,social, emotional and cognitive skills.So in the CCE curriculum ,syllabi and teaching are organised in accordance with the needs and interests of chioldren.

In child centered learning children take the responsibility for making choices about what they will learn and explore.The teacher has to listen for their cues and interest and create the appropriate curriculum needed for each child.The method of teaching is always play based.

In teacher centered education it is difficult to bring changes in the attitude of children since ,there is rigid administration,planning ,and management of students.

The features of CCE are giving due respect to the individuality if the child,there is no discrimination on the basis of economic, social or religious background of the child,focus on overall development of the child and continueous evalution of the child will lead in helping to actualise child's pottential.