An exploration of inclusive and exclusive perceptions and practises of practitioners and parents within British early years settings

Owen, Alex (2016) An exploration of inclusive and exclusive perceptions and practises of practitioners and parents within British early years settings. In: European Early Childhood Education Research Association Conference, August 2017, Dublin. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

This research project explored inclusive perceptions and practices within the early years setting. This builds on
the extensive research and ongoing literature relating to inclusive practice within the early years, including
Nutbrown & Clough (2009) and Hurley (2010). The theoretical underpinning involves the concept of 'Disability Gain' developed from the notion of 'Deaf Gain' (Bauman & Murray, 2009). Thus, inclusion is understood to involve the celebration of the value of difference, rather than its problematisation. A small scale qualitative study was undertaken within a British context in five community based parent and toddler groups. The study involved the use of a critical communicative methodological approach due to its focus on listening with a view to attaining transformation. Full ethical clearance was obtained for the project ensuring that participants were fully aware of the parameters of the study. Participant consent was achieved in advance and participants were given the opportunity to withdraw their contribution at any time. The study revealed three key findings. Firstly, it was shown that parental involvement is fundamental to inclusion. Secondly, it was shown that practitioners are able to articulate their desire for inclusion to a greater extent than parents. Finally, it was shown that practitioners felt that there was a distinct lack of resources, including funding, time and expertise, to support inclusive practice
appropriately. The findings from this research project have implications for practitioners seeking to ensure inclusive practice within the early years setting, as well as informing wider discussions regarding the development of inclusive policy.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Faculty / Department:	Faculty of Education and Social Sciences > School of Education
Depositing User:	Alex Owen
Date Deposited:	23 Nov 2017 10:35
Last Modified:	08 Nov 2024 12:14
URI:	https://hira.hope.ac.uk/id/eprint/2262

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