A comparison of the national early childhood curricula in Turkey and England

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to compare and contrast preschool education curricula and practices in Turkey and England, examine the cultural aspects and philosophical underpinnings of early childhood education in both countries, and investigate and discuss early childhood curricula in England and Turkey today. Turkey and England have contrasting educational systems. The early childhood education in England has been child-centered, whereas the Turkish early childhood education system is subject-centered and teacher directed. Early childhood education in England emphasizes individual children's interests, free play, firsthand experience, and integrated learning. Turkish childhood education emphasizes egalitarian, direct instructor rather than facilitator.