Doctoral defence: Pille Nelis "A Model for Implementing Inclusive Education in Early Childhood Education"

On 10 October at 9:00, Pille Nelis will defend her doctoral thesis „A Model for Implementing Inclusive Education in Early Childhood Education“.

Supervisor: Professor Margus Pedaste (PhD, University of Tartu)

Opponent: Professor Hildegunn Fandrem (PhD, University of Stavanger, Norway)

Summary:

The implementation of inclusive education principles in early childhood education is one of the most important topics both internationally and in Estonia. Early childhood education in an inclusive learning environment has a long-term and positive impact on children's academic skills, social development, and progress in school. Therefore, effective implementation of inclusive education in kindergartens is crucial. Research results have shown that effective implementation of inclusive education is related to several factors, such as understanding the meaning of inclusive education, clarity of the features supporting the implementation of inclusive education, and the professionalism of kindergarten staff in implementing inclusive education. Consequently, this doctoral thesis focuses on creating a model that supports the implementation of inclusive education and investigating its applicability in early childhood education. The research began with a systematic literature review. Taking into account the most important aspects of definitions found in the literature, a definition of inclusive education was formulated, distinguishing its philosophical and practical sence. The literature review showed that the key characteristics of inclusive education can be systematised through five levels of the education system: child, family, teacher, institution, and state levels. Next, the theoretical model's alignment with kindergarten practices was examined. A case study was conducted involving the staff of one kindergarten. The results showed that the theoretical model aligns with kindergarten practices. However, several challenges in implementing inclusive education were identified. Finally, the applicability of the model was assessed through a training program aimed at kindergarten teams, developed based on the model. Specifically, the change in participants' agency in implementing inclusive education after completing the program was investigated. Surveys were conducted before the start of the training and after its completion. The results showed that participants' agency to implement inclusive education improved after completing the training, indicating the model's applicability. The doctoral thesis provides recommendations for further research, educational policy development, implementation of inclusive education in kindergartens, and teacher training to support the effective implementation of inclusive education.

Location: Senate hall of the University of Tartu (Ülikooli 18)

URL: https://dspace.ut.ee/items/139f855f-ea37-4653-878e-7aa8789b1296