Saturday, April 12, 2014

Job Roles in the ECE Community: Internationally

 
This week, I researched three international organizations and possible employment opportunities related to the early childhood field.
 
 
UNICEF is an international organization with a mission to protect the rights of every child (UNICEF, 2014).  I have always been interested in UNICEF and its mission since I was a young child when a teacher encouraged my classmates and I to raise money for children in other countries through UNICEF.
 
One position that I find interesting at UNICEF is Consultancy Assignment: To Support the Early Childhood Development Section, Geneva, Switzerland (UNICEF, 2014).  Some of the qualifications that I possess for this position are at least 3-5 years in the education field, fluency in English, and the ability to lead and assess other programs (UNICEF, 2014). The position would require some travel and dedication to the position for at least six months (UNICEF, 2014).  I would love the opportunity to assist with creating and overseeing beginning early childhood programs in another country.
 
 
 
 
The second international organization I chose to research is the Peace Corps.  The mission of the Peace Corps is to provide assistance to others in developing countries in the fields of medicine, education, farming, and nutrition (Peace Corps, 2014).  The assistance provided is intended to provide services that otherwise would not be available to people and also provide leadership to enable people to learn ways to sustain themselves and their families (Peace Corps, 2014).
 
I have had an interest in the Peace Corps since I was an undergraduate in college.  I actually started filling out an application but had to stop because of family commitments.  I still keep the opportunity of volunteering for the Peace Corps in the back of my mind because I would like to travel to another country, learn about other people and cultures, and be an agent of change teaching young children and/or assisting in building a school in another country (Peace Corps, 2014).  The Peace Corps is about global change and connecting people around the world.
 
 
 
The third international organization that I researched is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).  The mission of UNESCO is to create respectful dialogue among nations respecting culture and language (UNESCO, 2014). 
 
At first when I was searching UNESCO for job opportunities, I became frustrated because the job opportunities I was finding required at least a doctorate to apply.  However, when I did a little more researching, I found the position of Consultant for Education which included a list of related education fields and early childhood education was listed (UNESCO, 2014).  I would meet the minimal requirements as a consultant except for international experience in my field but I would also welcome the opportunity to work for UNESCO as this organization seems to relate closely to my Capstone Project.
 
Researching international organizations provided me the opportunity learn more about worldwide organizations that are serving early childhood programs, young children, and families worldwide.  Although I do not feel confident at this moment working in a position internationally, I look at the opportunity as something to look forward to in the future.
 
 References
 
Peace Corps.  (2014).  Volunteer Opportunities.  Retrieved from
 
 
UNESCO.  (2014).  UNESCO Careers.  Retrieved from http://en.unesco.org/careers/
 
UNICEF.  (2014).  Employment at UNICEF.  Retrieved from
 
 


4 comments:

  1. Dear Nicolette,
    It seems you and I share an interest in working in another country. Since beginning this Master's program, it has occurred to me more than once that I could. I live alone and my children are all grown. It is something that intrigues me very much. Thank you for highlighting the job openings in the organizations. For me, it's good to know that with enough experience, there are opportunities out there to challenge us and create better lives for children.
    Laurie

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    Replies
    1. Dear Laurie,

      I am waiting for that day when my children are grown and I can pursue a global opportunity. I am hoping that my interest in global opportunities also encourages my own children to take advantage of those opportunities in their lifetime.

      Thank you for your comments and support!

      Nicolette

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  2. Dear Nicolette:
    I must say that working in another country is both fascinating and challenging at the same time. This is my experience working in the United States as an international teacher. Once you get to understand the culture of the people with whom you work, then you will be on your way to enjoying your opportunity of teaching and making a difference in the lives of children from another culture. I am willing once again to take on another challenge to make an impact in another country. When? I really cannot say. In the meantime, I will continue to gain all the experience and qualification that I can to assist me. Thank you for your post!
    Sharon Munroe.

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  3. Dear Sharon,

    Thank you for always sharing your experiences as a global professional! I value your experiences and input. It is good to hear that your experiences as a global professional are rewarding and fulfilling and how awesome that you want to continue to be challenged!

    Nicolette

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