Online training for early childhood educators

In an age of increasing accountability, childcare professionals are held responsible for providing young children quality early care and education. The unfortunate reality is that it is challenging for childcare professionals to pursue training because of the cost of training, family responsibilities, and scheduling conflicts. The Internet has the capability to knock down those barriers in the childcare profession, and has expanded the availability of information and has created avenues for teaching and learning. It is argued that early childhood educators have a positive attitude about online professional development and are seeking online opportunities to gain knowledge. The author shares her insight as to how to give online professional development instructors a better insight into the characteristics and attitudes of childcare professionals in order to deliver the most effective and efficient online professional development.

Autorentext

Dr. Heather Olsen is an assistant professor in Leisure, Youth, and Human Service Division and the Assistant Director of the National Program for Playground Safety. Along with teaching classes, her work includes providing education and training to early childcare programs, elementary schools, after school programs, and park departments.