Att stöda pedagogers relationella professionalism genom forskningscirklar

Abstract

Relational professionalism is an important aspect of the professionalism among staff in early childhood education and care (ECEC). Finnish national curricula emphasize the ability of staff to build relationships of trust with children, families, and collegues. In this study, we explore how staff can perceive that their relational professionalism can be supported through research circles. The study is conducted within a phenomenological hermeneutical framework and the research materials consist of written journals and focus group interviews. The results show that research circles can support several aspects of staff professionalism due to the versatile approaches included in the research circle process. Observation, discussion, reflection, dealing with feelings and experiences, using professional literature, and interacton with the circle leader can be important aspects of the process. The study indicates that research circles can be a powerful tool for professional development and a suitable approach for supporting relational professionalism among staff in ECEC.

Keywords: research circles, early childhood education and care (ECEC), preschool, relational professionalism