Teaming and Teaching in ECE: Neoliberal Reforms, Teacher Metaphors, and Identity in Head Start

Abstract

Noting that surprisingly little researcher attention has been directed toward teaming in early childhood education (ECE), the author conducted parallel case studies of two Head Start teacher teams in a single center. Drawing on interviews, extensive observational notes taken over the course of a school year, and teacher-generated metaphors, the cases are explored in relationship to a range of issues associated with teaming. Situated in self-determination theory and the three-component model of commitment, the cases are used to draw conclusions useful for rethinking approaches to teaming in ECE.

Keywords:

• teaming
• team teaching
• Head Start
• early childhood education
• teacher metaphors
• self-determination theory

Notes

1. In addition to the author, the research team included Professor Kendra Hall-Kenyon and Ms. Esther Marshall.