Posted on Monday, March 7, 2011
Dr. SoYoung Kang, ¾¨Ó㴫ý assistant professor of education, has received a 2011 Elizabeth Breathwaite Mini-Grant to support her research and a cultural exchange program between ¾¨Ó㴫ý's Preschool Lab and the Yerang Preschool in South Korea.
The award is given by the Association for Childhood Education International to support the implementation of outstanding education-related projects.
"Our goals for the partnership were to establish communication with another country; to introduce young children to a different culture; and to learn more about South Korean children, schooling, traditions, and activities," said Kang, whose daughter is enrolled in the ¾¨Ó㴫ý Preschool Lab. "We wanted our children to consider similarities and differences among individuals from another country because we live in a small, rural, fairly homogenous community."
The two schools have exchanged names, ages, and photos of the students. Yerang Preschool shared information about one of their holidays, Chusok Harvest Festival, and ¾¨Ó㴫ý Preschool sent a photo booklet about Thanksgiving.
The ¾¨Ó㴫ý Preschool Lab, established in 1990, is a multipurpose facility that serves the College and the community. Designed by early childhood experts, the laboratory school incorporates innovative curriculum, well-trained staff, developmentally appropriate equipment, and individual attention. The preschool is accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs.
Kang, who has been with ¾¨Ó㴫ý since 2007, earned an undergraduate degree from Korea University and master's and Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee.
Contact Kang at (724) 946-6034 or e-mail kangs@westminster.edu for additional information.
