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2.4.8 The ‘cost’ of giftedness: Neoliberal governance of early childhood education in Aotearoa New Zealand

Early childhood education within Aotearoa New Zealand is regulated to promote the mechanisms of competition. As more children enter early education through the discursive normalisation of educational ‘benefits’,more gifted children attend settings which are not economically supported to adequately extend their abilities. This presentation will draw upon Foucauldian research, problematising the role economic discourses play within the lives of gifted infants and toddlers who are participating within early childhood educational settings in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Questions surrounding the compatibility of early childhood education, gifted education, and the educational domain as a site for profit-making will be raised.

Author(s):

Andrea Delaune
andrea.delaune@pg.canterbury.ac.nz
University of Canterbury
New Zealand

Andrea Delaune is a passionate early childhood teacher who has worked in many aspects of early childhood education, from teacher to centre manager. As an educational researcher in Early Childhood Education Andrea has recently completed a Master’s Degree in Education entitled Gifted education for infants and toddlers in Aotearoa New Zealand: An insight into exemplary practice, and is currently working towards a PhD in early childhood education. Andrea is a proud wife, and mother of two young children who inspire her to be a better educator and person every day. Andrea is currently the elected Secretary of giftEDnz.