Child Diversity & Development
Objectives
- Employ the ecological framework whie studying children with special needs in the Swedish and Estonian contexts
- Uncover contextual and systemic dilemmas of "specialized pedagogy"
- Reflect on and construct the concepts of special needs and inclusive practices within different countries
Previous Activities Have Included
- Visits with schools and children at specialized institutions
- Panel discussions with various practitioners within Tallinn municipality
- Hands-on interactions with children in a Swedish community-based preschool
Description
On this tour, students get the amazing opportunity to broaden their understanding of the “Scandinavian perspective” of children with special needs, and inclusive education. 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 special needs.
Tallinn is one of Europe’s best preserved old towns, and a web of cobblestone streets. Referred to as ‘the city of the Danes’, Tallinn is in the process of developing an inclusive public policy regarding its educational system. Considering the political history of Estonia, the current trends in special needs work, remedial learning groups, individual curricula, and child support systems highlight various cross-cultural influences.
Just across the Baltic Sea lies Stockholm, capital of Sweden. Stockholm has explicit access to special pedagogy, with a more progressive focus on social issues. Built on 14 different islands, Stockholm is a prime example of an astounding Nordic city, where students can explore the issues of innovative aesthetics and design combined with alternative pedagogical practices.
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 inclusive practices.
