Document Type
Capstone Open Access
Thesis / Capstone Title
What are the Effects of Educational Status Hierarchies and Educators’ Devaluation?
Faculty Supervisor
Michelle Whitehead, EdD
Date of Defense
Winter 4-17-2023
Department
Faculty of Applied Health & Community Studies (FAHCS)
Program Name
Honours Bachelor of Early Childhood Leadership (HBECL)
Description
The paper discusses the undervaluation of Early Childhood Educators (ECE) in co-teaching scenarios with Ontario Certified Teachers (OCT) and highlights the emotional toll of racism in the education hierarchy. The research utilized a Polyvocal ethnography and found that language plays a role in perpetuating the division between ECEs and OCTs. The study emphasizes the importance of advocacy and self-worth in empowering individuals to advocate for themselves and others in the field of Early Education.
Abstract
This paper examines the devaluation of Early Childhood Educators (ECE) in co-teaching scenarios alongside Ontario Certified Teachers (OCT). The researcher used a Polyvocal ethnography approach and hermeneutic analysis to study documented narratives from five FDK educators. The research revealed that ECEs are undervalued in co-teaching environments. The analysis identified the emotional toll of racism in the education hierarchy, and the devaluation of educators which they connected to the low market value of the Early Education field, and the role of language was seen to perpetuate the division between ECEs and OCTs. Furthermore, the role affects their sense of personal advocacy, and a sense of innate resilience was noted. The research supports the literature reviewed earlier, which emphasized the importance of advocacy. However, the research findings also highlighted the critical role of advocacy and self-worth in equipping individuals with the necessary skills and confidence to advocate for themselves and others in the field. The study showed that personal experiences can be a valuable resource for personal growth, empowerment, and advocacy. It also demonstrated the potential of using a Polyvocal ethnography approach in Early education practicum, which values both insider-outsider perspectives to shed light on important narratives that are often overlooked.
Recommended Citation
Mir, Aisha, "What are the Effects of Educational Status Hierarchies and Educators’ Devaluation?" (2023). Student Theses / Capstones. 2.
https://source.sheridancollege.ca/student_submissions/2
