Title: Male Early Childhood Montessori Teachers: Why They Chose To Teach.
Abstract: Male teachers comprise only 12 percent of the teachers in early childhood programs, in comparison to 30 percent of the total teaching workforce. This paper reviews literature on male early childhood teachers and explores the reasons given by four men for deciding to be Montessori early childhood teachers. The paper then considers reasons for the disproportionately low numbers of males in the profession, lack of support for and stereotypes related to males who work with young children, and reasons for entering the field. The paper details interviews conducted with the four male Montessori teachers regarding their reasons for becoming a Montessori teacher, for teaching in early childhood education, and the types of biases they encountered. Reasons cited for entering the teaching profession included dissatisfaction with current jobs, childhood aspirations, and following in a parent's footsteps. The choice of early childhood education was influenced by internship placements in early childhood programs, positive early teaching experiences with young children, and parenthood preparation. The choice of a Montessori school was influenced by attendance in a Montessori school throughout childhood, compatibility with the Montessori philosophy, and a positive impression of other Montessori teachers. Several stereotypes or other concerns were noted, including experiencing sexual harassment, being wary of accusations of child molestation, being the butt of stereotypical jokes, and dealing with double standards. Parents were reported as happy that their child had a male teacher but suspicious if their child talked a lot about the teacher at home. (Contains 20 references.) (KB) ******************************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. ******************************************************************************** U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Office of Educational Research and Improvement EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC) X-This document has been reproduced as received from the person or organization originating it. 0 Minor changes have been made to improve reproduction quality. Points of view or opinions stated in this document do not necessarily represent official OERI position or policy. Male Early Childhood Montessori Teachers: Why They Chose To Teach Anthony Santiago Abstract This paper explores the reasons four men have had for deciding to be Montessori teachers in the field of Early Childhood Education. Research of men in Early Childhood Education was reported on and interviews of men in Early Childhood Education wereThis paper explores the reasons four men have had for deciding to be Montessori teachers in the field of Early Childhood Education. Research of men in Early Childhood Education was reported on and interviews of men in Early Childhood Education were reviewed. PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE AND DISSEMINATE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY
Publication Year: 1999
Publication Date: 1999-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
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Cited By Count: 9
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