Work based learning for early years professionals: Reconceptualising the third teacher in early years settings.
Dr. Aaron Bradbury: Nottingham Trent University, School of Social Sciences
Abstract
The study outlines that the type of learning programme pursued by early childhood trainees plays a significant role in determining whether or not they are able to take advantage of work-based learning opportunities. It is also shown that early childhood practitioners with a strong learning orientation achieve higher levels of competency and expertise. The social support of colleagues and supervisors plays an important role in job competence/expertise, emphasizing the need for highly trained practitioners in the early childhood field. In the study, the third teacher, often referred to as a mentor or teacher in the early years workplace environment, was found to be important in determining the outcomes of early years trainees.
Key Words
Third teacher, work-based learning, early years mentor, early years, competence/expertise.
See full paper here: