Child Diversity & Development
Objectives
- To reflect on the dynamic processes of multiculturalism
- To gain comparative perspectives on childhood in the Turkey and Denmark and apply definitions of terms discussed in class (social inclusion, cultural competence, etc.)
- Evalutate the ways that multiculturalism in Turkey has had an impact on social and educational institutions
Previous Activities Have Included
- Meet with Turkish educators and youth groups
- Visits to children's institutions that employ both typical and specialized approaches to diversity
- Visits to multicultural communities developing new schools and organizations
Description
Experience the dynamic city of Istanbul which boarders the east and west. Explore current issues of education and child care in relation to child development in a Turkish context. Broaden your understanding of Turkish society in relation to ethnic diversity and children’s rights through visits to child care centers, non-profit organizations, education facilities and local community-based organizations. Meet with Turkish educators and youth who are at the center of current Turkish research. Reflect on your experiences as you walk through UNESCO heritage site neighborhoods, the Grand Bazaar, the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
The visits give students a forum to discuss and debate cultural differences within ‘best practice’, and each of the destinations encourages students to explore the historical, economic, and social backgrounds of multiculturalism.
It is an excellent opportunity for students to experience childcare, educational psychology and prevalent inclusive practices that link to global, social and political developments on ethnicity and national childcare strategies in Turkey. Cross-cultural comparisons to Scandinavia highlight areas of growth and challenges to providing quality of care for the local communities.
Students will observe and discuss public policies, community practices, and individual efforts through their academic study. They will also have the opportunity to dig deeper into the culture of the city, and attend performances, visit museum exhibitions, and wander through various street markets to add to their understanding of diversity.
Tours integrate theories presented in classroom learning together with practicum observations, field studies, and the tour visits to set the stage for an extended study of multicultural practices.
