Abstract:

The "Te Whàriki" program, which is among the early childhood education programs in the world and means "woven carpet" in Màori language, is the national education program of New Zealand. The analogy "woven carpet" has brought a different perspective to early childhood education program with its unique quality and understanding of the unity of different cultures. Children’s learning experiences are not independent of the society they live in and the cultural understanding that shapes the social structure. Although there are a few studies about the Te Whàriki program in our country, it is a program that is not very well known. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the educational approach adopted by the Te Whàriki Program within a wide scope. In this review article, detailed information about the history, philosophy, education program, learning environment, child, teacher and family roles, strengths and weaknesses of the program and criticisms about the program are among the elements that make up the scope of the study. In this context, it is thought that the Te Whàriki Program will not only bring a different perspective to the education of the child, but also contribute to the early childhood education services and program studies in our country as an interactive program with cultural values, environment and society.

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