Values in Early Childhood Education: A Cross-Cultural Comparative Study of Values for ECE Expressed in Policy Documents

Abstract

Purpose: This comparative study identifies core values expressed in Early Childhood Education (ECE) official policy documents from a sample of thirteen countries. Design/Approach/Methods: This study employs document analysis as well as content and thematic analysis. ECE values identified in the policy documents are categorized into three groups: political and society-related values, educational values, and individual and relational values. Findings: Document analysis reveals the values that are common across countries and those that are more specific to just one or a few countries at most. This study discusses the characteristics of these values from the perspective of globalization. In doing so, this comparative study illustrates and discusses the tendencies for both convergence and divergence in ECE values in policymaking worldwide. Originality/Value: The findings of this study expand our understanding of the values in ECE policy documents in the sampled countries, offering insights into ECE objectives and policymaking in various countries.