Silenced Voices: Learning about Early Childhood Programs in the South East Asian Region

Abstract

This articles explores the influences of political, cultural, historical and economic dynamics of the Asian region on what can be learnt about the region by English-speaking Australians and, therefore, for what can reasonably be known and said about early childhood programs by them. In doing so, it shows that learning about early childhood programs in the Asian region involves two levels of learning: learning about and learning what can be learnt about these services. The article concludes with suggestions for how English-speaking Australians might begin the process of learning about early childhood programs in the Asian region. The countries of the Pacific Rim [including Australia] face many common issues and problems in the provision of early childhood education. A great deal could be learned through international dialogue and collaborative research. (Feeney 1992, p.314) This articles explores the political and practical challenges and possibilities monolingual, English-speaking Australians face in taking up Feeney's suggestion to become involved in cross-cultural exchanges with early childhood colleagues in the Asian region.