Pioneers in Early Childhood Education: The Roots and Legacies of Charlotte Mason, Rachel and Margaret McMillan, Maria Montessori and Susan Isaacs

Rachel and Margaret McMillan, Maria Montessori, and Susan Isaacs have significantly impacted contemporary early years curriculum theory and practice. This book introduces students and practitioners to the ideas, philosophies, and writings of these key early thinkers in early childhood education and highlights their relevance to quality early years provision today. It also introduces Charlotte Mason (1832–1923), who saw learning as a lifestyle rather than a means for passing tests. The book explores the influences that shaped each pioneer's ideas and demonstrates how they have contributed to our knowledge of young children's learning and development. It provides practical examples, reflective questions, and case studies to support practitioners in developing and improving their own practice.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 14 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Rachel and Margaret McMillan, Maria Montessori, and Susan Isaacs have had a profound impact on contemporary early years curriculum theory and practice. This insightful book introduces students and practitioners to the ideas, philosophies, and writings of these key early thinkers in early childhood education, showcasing how they relate to the provision of quality early years education today. In this new and revised edition, the book also introduces another pioneer, Charlotte Mason (1832–1923), who viewed learning as a lifestyle rather than a means for passing tests and completing tasks.

The book delves into the influences that shaped the ideas, values, and beliefs of each pioneer, providing a clear understanding of their contributions to our knowledge of young children's learning and development. It then examines these in the context of current policy to highlight the key ideas that practitioners should consider when reflecting on their own practice.

Key features of the book include:

Summaries of each pioneer's ideas and their influence on contemporary practice: The book offers concise summaries of each pioneer's ideas, highlighting their key principles and contributions to the field.

Practical examples to illustrate key principles: Practical examples are provided to illustrate the practical application of the key principles discussed in each chapter.

Reflective questions to encourage practitioners to develop and improve their own practice: Reflective questions are included to encourage practitioners to reflect on their own practice and develop their skills and knowledge.

Case studies and conversations from both England and Sweden to help further the application of knowledge into practice: Case studies and conversations from both England and Sweden are included to provide real-world examples and insights into the application of the knowledge discussed in the book.

Written to support the work of all those in the field of early childhood education, this book is invaluable to students and practitioners who wish to fully understand the lasting legacies of these five influential women.

By exploring the ideas, philosophies, and writings of these pioneers, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful introduction to contemporary early years curriculum theory and practice. It serves as a valuable resource for students, practitioners, and policymakers alike, helping to shape the future of early childhood education.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367340537
Edition number: 2 ed