About the project
The project emphasizes the importance of educators in shaping culturally responsive teaching methods that acknowledge and value children's diverse identities. It highlights the necessity for professionals in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) to gain intercultural competence, as outlined in the national curricula of the participating countries, to ensure sustainable and ethical education. The project also recognizes the unique cultural and social environments of each region and the shared need for cross-border cooperation to effectively develop and exchange best practices in ECEC.The primary objectives are to create a well-functioning network among ECEC educators at the partner institutions and develop a comprehensive knowledge base on intercultural cooperation in early childhood pedagogy. By fostering cross-border cooperation, the project seeks to enhance the capacity of ECEC professionals to support children in developing intercultural competence, tolerance, and solidarity, addressing challenges posed by increasing societal diversity.
Project goal
The aim of this project is to build a strong basis for co-creation of new knowledge and future cooperation in the field of intercultural interaction in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) in the participating regions, Vaasa (Ostrobothnia, FI), Luleå (Norrbotten, SWE), and Tromsoe (Troms fylke, NO).Specifically, the project objectives are to
1) create a well-functioning network for teachers at the partner institutions with a focus on early childhood pedagogy
2) develop a knowledge base about intercultural cooperation in early childhood pedagogy. Throughout the project, we will build professional relations and a knowledge base that can be used in education at the partner institutions.
After completing the project, the network has a solid knowledge base and a plan to apply for funding for a regular project that develops a model for intercultural cooperation in ECEC. Ultimately, this initiative will strengthen the role of ECEC professionals in promoting social inclusion and preventing exclusion, benefiting children, their families, and broader society.
UN's Sustainable Development Goals
Susanne Davidsson
Senior Lecturer