Reflection for Self-Learning

July 16, 2020

After discussing the  Reflective Self-Learning Questions on page 5 with my group, I found that each of our opinions of what is considered ethical behaviour did not differ much from one another.

I do believe that the behaviour of both Gupal and Wendy in the course of the morning that they spent with the children was ethical. It appears that they both have an interest in the well being of the children in their care in providing time to communicate with parents any important “updates” in respect to the children and how they may be feeling during the a.m. drop off.

Secondly, they watched a small argument between two young girls to unfold while refraining from any involvement allowing the girls to feel competent and independent in resolving the conflict on their own.

Thirdly, it appears that both educators are prepared to design a program that provides the children with opportunities to develop socially, physically, emotionally, cognitively and creatively.

Lastly, when Dory went missing they remained calm in trying to avoid frightening the children and it appears they had an emergency procedure in place for this exact situation.

However, in the midst of the agreed upon ethical behaviour we did find some questionable practices such as when Dory was exhibiting disruptive behaviour and having a difficult time in sharing with the other children Gupal did not respond immediately to Dory’s behaviour but had asked to speak to her later.

Another questionable practice we found was one of Wendy “motioning” to Gupal that it was time to go outside without communicating orally to her and the children that it was time to transition into another activity.

In addition to these practices there was the “loss” of Dory. The misplaced attendance sheet in the morning due to a busy morning was unfortunate as an attendance sheet is an important document used to keep track of the children in an educators care. This document must be kept accurate and easily accessible to ensure that every child is accounted for. Should they have had this document they potentially would have noticed that a child was missing per the “head count.”

It is of my opinion that Wendy and Gupal could improve their practice by ensuring that all documentation is kept in a designated area, children’s needs are addressed as soon as possible and staff consistently communicate with the children and each other to ensure that there  is very little room  for error in addressing concerns for safety and the well-being of all children.

I do think that Gupal and Wendy should talk to Dory’s parents about the situation that occurred as educators we are encouraged to be both truthful and trust-worthy. When we find ourselves communicating openly with parents, children and colleagues, we are behaving in a professional manner that builds respectful and caring relationships.