Metaphors of early childhood education student teachers at the beginning of the university studies
Keywords:
content analysis, early childhood education student teacher (ECE student teacher), early childhood teacher education, metaphorAbstract
This study examined ECE student teachers' metaphors about the teacher, children, and ECEC centre at the beginning of the study in 1992, 2008, 2013, and 2017. Similarities and differences were also explored. The theoretical overview of metaphors and metaphor studies formed the basis for the study. 122 voluntary students participated in the study. Data were collected using metaphors and open-ended questions and analysed using content analysis. Students emphasized the teacher as a mother and leader of a child group. Children were highlighted as seedlings and friends. ECEC centre was stressed as a children's playground and home. The study found that students placed very little emphasis on learning and cognitive challenges and ignored negative views. Differences were also found. The students of 1992 and 2008 emphasized the teacher as the leader of the child group and as the children's friend. Children were also highlighted as a herd of wild foals and monkeys. ECEC centre was emphasized as a summer camp. The students of 2013 and 2017 emphasized the teacher as a lighthouse and a mainstay of flowers. Children were highlighted as flowers, blank paper, play dough, bringers of joy, and as their own children. Metaphors offer educators a tool that helps students analyse their views and experiences about themselves, children, and ECEC centre. Educators can help students explore positive and negative metaphors, generate new metaphors, and thus develop professionally.
