SEAMEO
CECCEP took proactive steps to enhance understanding and awareness of gender in
early childhood education through a general lecture held on Thursday, February
15, 2024. The event, which was open to the public, took a place at auditorium
of SEAMEO CECCEP. The public lecture commenced with a gracious welcome extended
by Professor Vina Adriany, Director of SEAMEO CECCEP. She also gave a special
introduction to our esteemed speaker, Professor Anette Hellman, from the
University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
Anette
Hellman has a Ph. D in education and works as a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty
of Education, Communication and Learning at the University of Gothenburg. Her
areas of expertise include issues related to gender and critical childhood
studies.
To
open the lecture, Professor Hellman introduced the topic briefly that will
covers mostly about how children do gender and inclusion & exclusion. In
the initial moments, Professor Hellman focused on elucidating how children
perceive gender in their day-to-day experiences. How children do gender
according to her was children at some point become aware of markers of
difference between girls and boys. She outlined a spectrum of aspects often
associated with gender, encompassing elements such as color, hairstyle,
clothing choices, body movements, voice modulation, and other pertinent
factors.
Moreover,
Professor Hellman emphasized the significant connection between gender
stereotypes and educators. The Common Project implemented at the preschool
level plays an important role in shaping children's perceptions of gender. This
initiative fosters cooperative relationships between boys and girls, ultimately
contributing to the promotion of gender equality.
The
final session involves a discussion between the audience and the speaker. An
intriguing question raised by one audience member about a case where boys
imitate girls in terms of fashion styling. Professor Hellman highlighted this
as one of numerous reasons why early childhood education holds significance.
Children exhibit a profound curiosity about various aspects of life, and
addressing this curiosity is crucial for fostering a better understanding of
themselves. Preschool education plays a pivotal role in educating children and
nurturing their development.
The
general lecture concluded with Professor Vina Adriany, our director, presenting
a certificate to the speaker. Professor Hellman's lecture gave valuable insight
on the significance of gender and social inclusion in early childhood
education.
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