The podcast features Dr. Adam W.J. Davies, Professor at the University of Guelph, RECE.
They have a PhD in Curriculum Studies & Teacher Development & Sexual Diversity Studies & Women & Gender Studies - Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), University of Toronto
They are interviewed by Ishaa Vinod Chopra, a final-year student at George Brown College's School of Early Childhood, RECE, Performing Artist (Kathak), Mental Health Advocate & Author of a memoir titled 'Finding Order in Disorder'.
The discussion focuses on advocacy, mental health, and the challenges early childhood educators face as it aligns with this year's World Mental Health Day theme of 'Prioritizing Workplace Mental Health.'
Dr. Davies and Ishaa talk about a statement issued by the AECEO (Association for Early Childhood Educators Ontario), co-authored by Dr. Davies, Brooke Richardson, Michelle Jones, and, supported by the Board of Directors and staff of AECEO. , titled “At the Intersection of Safety, Ethics, Mental Health, and Well Being: Disrupting the Status Quo Regulatory Approach in Ontario.” The statement addresses sanism, the discrimination against individuals with mental health diagnoses.
It critiques the College of Early Childhood Educators' regulatory practices, particularly their annual renewal form, which asks educators to disclose any disabilities (mental or physical) that could impact their ability to practice safely.
According to the issued statement, this regulatory approach may harm marginalized educators due to the vague and unclear disclosure requirement.
--
There is further discussion on Dr. Adam W.J Davies's research topics, which include LGBTQ+ children and youth in the early years and K-12 schooling; inclusion for children with disabilities & sexuality education, employing the use of critical theory, including queer theory, mad studies, and critical disability studies.
--
A George Brown College, Early Childhood Degree: Solutions Project, ft. Dr. Adam W.J Davies
Interviewed by Research Intern/Student: Ishaa Vinod Chopra
Location Courtesy: University of Guelph
Camera, Editing: Ilse Moreno