International Child Care Research & Policy Seminar
2012 Study Abroad for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
CDFS 590: Child Care Quality Research & Policy in Germany, Netherlands, and United States (3 credits)
May 20-26, 2012
A comparison of child care and family support policies, recent research findings, and program innovations in three countries. This is an international seminar, including students and faculty from Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States, participating face-to-face and via distance technology. The three co-instructors, each with cross-cultural experience, are child care researchers in their home countries. Readings and class discussions will focus on policy, research questions, methods, and recent findings across the three countries. The course will offer opportunities to establish professional relationships and collaborations among both faculty and students.
Program Objectives
- To obtain in-depth knowledge in the fields of child care and family support with an international perspective.
- To become familiar with the state of the art of international research in early care and education.
- To reflect on one’s own country (Germany, Netherlands, U.S.) and compare that situation in an international context.
- To enlarge the intercultural competence of students; to work together and communicate in an intercultural setting.
- To have international communication and exchange of knowledge and experience.
- To give students the opportunity to get international academic experience, without leaving their home country for an extended amount of time.
Program Highlights
- Travel to beautiful Bamberg, Germany (Bavaria) for a one week intensive seminar May 20-26, including visits to early childhood/family support programs and cultural events. (www.justgermany.org/germany/bamberg/)
- The course begins April 24th and ends June 26th.
- All classes will be conducted in English.
- To enlarge the intercultural competence of students; to work together and communicate in an intercultural setting.
- Work with and get to know students from Germany and the Netherlands.
- Seminar includes: Four 3-hour videoconferences between Purdue University and groups in Berlin and Amsterdam. Plus a five-day face-to-face seminar in Germany.
- Assignments include: one international collaborative group presentation and essay (15 pgs.); and one individual essay (10 pgs.) Application Process
Co-Instuctors: Dr. James Elicker, Purdue University; Dr. Ruben Fukkink, University of Amsterdam; and Dr. Yvonne Anders, Bamberg University and the Free.
Financial assistance for students’ travel costs may be available.
Application Process
Click here to enroll in this program!
International Child Care Research and Policy Seminar: Amsterdam - Student Application Form
For more information, contact:
Dr. Jim Elicker