Community-Based Transformational Learning in Early Childhood Settings: Integrating Experiences of Teachers, Students, and the Community

This comprehensive, research-based resource illuminates the challenges and benefits of integrating community-based transformational learning (CBTL) experiences of teachers, students, and the community in early childhood settings. Balancing historical context with theoretical underpinnings, ongoing research, and current practice, this multi-authored volume demystifies the praxeology of CBTL. It uses annotated case studies to explore the importance of considering contextual factors (i.e., cultural practices, community health and demographics, and student level) that may influence what early-years students gain from CBTL experiences, and it encourages a community dialogue that is both challenging and affirming to support students’ confidence in their own capacity to make a better world for all people. As the first CBTL book specific to early childhood settings, it is key reading for future teachers. It is also of great interest to current educators, administrators, and community organizers who want to help center CBTL as a vital part of early childhood curriculum.

Christian Winterbottom is an Associate Professor at The University of North Florida where he teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in early childhood education and in community-based learning.

Vickie E. Lake is a Professor in the Department of Instructional Leadership and Academic Curriculum in Early Childhood Education and the Associate Dean for the Jeanine Rainbolt College of Education-Tulsa at The University of Oklahoma. Dr. Lake has 20 years of teaching, research, and service in higher education.

Adrien Malek-Lasater is an Assistant Professor in Early Childhood Education at the University of North Florida. Dr. Malek-Lasater has spent approximately ten years working with young children and families as an early childhood education teacher and child development specialist.