How can understanding personhood support character development in young learners?

What the Research Study Is About

This research study explores the meanings and interpretations of values and the enactment of values education in early childhood, emphasizing the concept of personhood as essential for character development. The study involves semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with government officials, religious leaders, preschool leaders and teachers.

A key focus is investigating how preschool educators can cultivate values like respect, responsibility, honesty and care within Singapore’s multicultural context.

Key Findings

Emphasis on Personhood

• • • Teaching values should go beyond surface behaviors, focusing on developing a deeper understanding of personhood – who we are and what our values and beliefs are. This shapes children’s identities and moral reasoning.

Role of Teachers

• • • Teachers should embody the values they teach, serving as role models for their students. This requires teachers to be self-aware – knowing who they are and the values they hold dear to will enable them to live out the values they believe in and wish to cultivate in their students. This means being authentic in both professional and personal interactions and relationships.

Pedagogical Approaches

• • • Engaging pedagogies, such as narrative approach, experiential learning and values-infused activities, are essential for helping children grasp abstract concepts through concrete experiences.
    • Teachers are encouraged to leverage local resources and community partners to enhance relatability.

School Culture

• • • Creating a school-wide ethos that promotes respect and care is crucial. This involves all stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of personhood and character development.
    • Integrating personhood into preschool education leads to  moral and character growth among children, setting the important foundation for their future learning trajectory and development.

This research summary was generated by Coral AI and has been reviewed by the authors.