Early childhood teacher education in Australia

Abstract

The nature and form of early childhood courses in Australia varies from State to State but certain characteristics prevail and assist in illustrating the present condition of early childhood teacher education in this country. However, recently proposed changes to teacher education #opK‐12#cp, as set out by the Australian Education Council #op1990#cp, would bring about a new style of preparation for early childhood teachers in Australia. This new direction is being questioned by early childhood teacher educators and alternative plans for modification of course structures are being generated. The present study collated details of accredited undergraduate early childhood courses throughout Australia, highlighted State characteristics and proposed areas for change and issues for further debate, particularly in the face of a national movement of reform in teacher education in Australia.