This research project explores Froebel’s legacy in relation to the many other philosophies now influencing Early Childhood Education (ECE) globally.
This research project explores Froebel’s legacy in relation to the many other philosophies influencing Early Childhood Education (ECE) globally.
The project includes scholars from Aotearoa, England, Ireland, Tonga, Norway, and Scotland, who are together examining ECE approaches across and within cultures. Their focus is on philosophical influences in each country and the ways they are influences, in time space and ideology.
Discussing and sharing their insights, these scholars identify philosophies that are present, hidden, or missing in each country's approach. They are looking at tensions and ruptures in thought and practice. They trace the 'red thread' of Froebelian thought and its influence on modern early childhood education approaches worldwide.
The project team is now writing a book that encourages educators to dialogise with these philosophies to explore tensions between thought and practice. The researchers hope to interanimate ECE approaches that will benefit children and families across the globe.
The team plans to share their findings in May 2027.
About the project team
Prof. E. Jayne White is a Professor of Early Years Research at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, with responsibilities for post graduate teaching. She specialises in dialogic philosophy and early years pedagogy.
The other members of the project team are:
Liz Chesworth University of Sheffield
Dr Poliana Fa’olio – University of the South Pacific
Dr Lynn McNair - University of Edinburgh
Dr Leah O’Toole – Maynooth University
Dr Bridgette Redder – Te Rito Maioha
Dr Alicja Sandownik – Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
Dr Lynley Tulloch - Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Dr Ngaroma Williams – University of Canterbury
