ERIC Number: EJ1365644
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1354-0602
EISSN: EISSN-1470-1278
Available Date: N/A
Challenges and Supports for Educator Well-Being: Perspectives of Australian Early Childhood Educators during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Teachers and Teaching: Theory and Practice, v28 n5 p568-583 2022
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of early childhood education and care (ECEC) as an essential service for families and the economy. However, it also exacerbated persisting challenges for the sector which impact educator well-being. This paper reports findings from a qualitative study that investigated Australian early childhood educators' perspectives about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and challenges and supports for educator well-being. A sample of 214 ECEC professionals responded to an online survey and 15 educators participated in subsequent focus groups. Five themes were identified in the data from open-ended survey questions and the focus groups: (1) threats to physical, emotional and financial health; (2) self-care and access to well-being resources; (3) connection with children and families; (4) a supportive professional community; and (5) acknowledging the value of early childhood education. These themes are elucidated using the 'voices' of educators, providing insights into how educator well-being can be supported during and beyond the pandemic.
Descriptors: COVID-19, Pandemics, Early Childhood Education, Barriers, Well Being, Foreign Countries, Teacher Attitudes, Mental Health, Physical Health, Financial Problems, Sense of Community
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Australia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A