Full reference
Lee, C. & McConnell, C. (2017). Children as photographers: Joyful exploration. NZ International Research in Early Childhood Education Journal, 20(1), 69 -80. Retrieved from www.childforum.com/research/nz-international-early-childhood-education-journal-2017.html

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Original Research Paper
© ChildForum 

Children as photographers: Joyful exploration

Courtney Lee and Cheryl McConnell
Eastern Institute of Technology, NZ

Abstract

This paper describes what happened when children in an early childhood centre in New Zealand were facilitated to document their own views while having unrestricted access to a camera. The investigation asked how would children’s unrestricted access to the camera enable them to document their interests, and how would this enable the children to assess their learning when they revisited and reflected on the photographs they chose to take? The results suggest engagement and joyful exploration when children have freedom to use the camera at their discretion. When teachers seek children’s views, children are not only willing to share their views but through sharing and reflecting, the learning becomes enhanced for both teachers and children. Children become more curious, engaged and competent.

Key words: Children’s views; assessment; learning; photography. 

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