HighScope Approach vs. Te Whāriki Approach

Attribute	HighScope Approach	Te Whāriki Approach
Philosophy	Child-centered approach	Child-centered approach
Curriculum	Focus on active learning and hands-on experiences	Focus on holistic development and cultural responsiveness
Assessment	Observational assessments to track child progress	Emphasis on narrative assessments and learning stories
Parent Involvement	Encourages active involvement of parents in child's learning	Values input from parents and whānau in child's education

Introduction

Early childhood education is a critical period in a child's development, and the approach taken by educators can have a significant impact on the child's learning and growth. Two popular approaches in early childhood education are the HighScope Approach and the Te Whāriki Approach. While both approaches aim to provide a holistic and child-centered learning environment, they have distinct differences in their philosophies and practices.

Philosophy

The HighScope Approach is based on the belief that children learn best through active participation in their environment. It emphasizes hands-on learning experiences and encourages children to make choices and decisions in their learning. The approach also values adult-child interactions and sees adults as facilitators of learning rather than instructors. On the other hand, the Te Whāriki Approach is grounded in the principles of holistic development and recognizes the importance of cultural identity and relationships in a child's learning. It views children as competent and capable individuals who learn through meaningful interactions with others and their environment.

Curriculum

In the HighScope Approach, the curriculum is structured around key developmental domains, including social-emotional development, physical development, and cognitive development. The approach uses a daily routine that includes a balance of child-initiated and adult-led activities to support children's learning across these domains. In contrast, the Te Whāriki Approach is based on a holistic curriculum framework that emphasizes the interconnectedness of learning areas and the importance of weaving together different strands of learning. The curriculum is flexible and responsive to children's interests and needs, allowing for a more personalized learning experience.

Assessment

Assessment in the HighScope Approach is focused on observing and documenting children's learning through anecdotal records and portfolios. Educators use this information to track children's progress and plan future learning experiences. The approach values ongoing assessment and sees it as a way to inform teaching practices and support children's development. In comparison, assessment in the Te Whāriki Approach is more holistic and narrative-based. Educators use a range of assessment tools, including learning stories and learning portfolios, to capture children's learning journeys and celebrate their achievements. Assessment in this approach is seen as a way to recognize and affirm children's strengths and capabilities.

Parent Involvement

Both the HighScope Approach and the Te Whāriki Approach value the involvement of parents and whānau (extended family) in children's learning. In the HighScope Approach, parents are seen as partners in their child's education, and educators work collaboratively with them to support children's learning at home and in the classroom. The approach emphasizes open communication and regular feedback to keep parents informed about their child's progress. Similarly, the Te Whāriki Approach recognizes the importance of parents and whānau in children's learning and encourages their active participation in the early childhood setting. Educators in this approach work closely with parents to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for children.

Conclusion

While the HighScope Approach and the Te Whāriki Approach share a common goal of providing high-quality early childhood education, they have distinct differences in their philosophies, curriculum, assessment practices, and approaches to parent involvement. Educators can draw on the strengths of both approaches to create a rich and engaging learning environment that meets the diverse needs of children and families. By understanding the unique attributes of each approach, educators can tailor their practices to support children's holistic development and foster a love of learning that will last a lifetime.