| This dissertation contributes to the field of Early Childhood Education and Care studies by providing the in-depth theoretical, document, and empirical analyses. The three types of analysis aim to build a case for the practical utilization of the critical paradigm. The critical paradigm is understood as a driving force for early childhood pedagogy which empowers educators, policy-makers, and academic scholars to apply a practical change in the field while acknowledging and sustaining the young children's right to actively participate in matters related to their education and well-being. In this venue, the thesis provides (i) a thorough and productive analysis of the paradigmatic discussions presently available in the field of early childhood education; (ii) an argument for the practical application of the critical paradigm; (iii) an application of the paradigmatic debates to early childhood curricular and policy documents; (iv) and an empirical evidence from the field which has not been documented before and which gives insights to changes needed in policy directions and the preparation of pre-service early childhood educators. |
