In this post, Jo Hilliard, a second year Early Childhood student, shares her experiences of participating in the Praxis project ‘The Journey of the Early Childhood Student’ with Jo Josephidou.
I decided to join the research project simply because I valued the opportunity to share my thoughts. Like many people who work in early childhood already, I often feel that my opinion isn’t considered by those who make the decisions, and I felt that I couldn’t justify complaining about this, if I didn’t find the time to share my thoughts when someone did ask. I knew that I had lots to say about what the Open University does well, as well as a few little grumbles (because nothing in life is ever perfect!) but I also wanted to be a part of any potential changes that may come about in the future. I felt that as the OU was prepared to take the time to listen to their students’ voices, then I should find the time to share my mine. After all, the more students who were able to help, the clearer the picture would be for the researchers and therefore the wider the impact of the research overall. I felt that could only be a positive thing for my studies going forward.
The biggest benefit of the project for me has been the sense of belonging I have gained from meeting with my fellow students who are also taking part. I didn’t expect to connect with them as much as I have but it has been a real pleasure to meet with them online a few times a year to share our thoughts, celebrate our successes and generally just cheer each other on when the work/uni/life balance has been a struggle. Sharing meetings and email exchanges with Jo, the project lead, has been an equally positive experience as the way that she acknowledges and values our contributions makes me feel like I matter to the university as both a student and as a real person. Open University study can feel a little bit too distant sometimes, so the project has been a welcome thread of connection for me during my student journey.
I am excited to start my second year on the research project and to be a part of something that I feel has real potential to be a positive force for students now and in the future. My hope is that my contributions will be able to help the researchers identify ways that they can continue to support students like me to achieve the dreams that have set them on the path of an Early Childhood Degree. Helping to shape the experiences of students who will take this journey in years to come, is a real privilege.
Thank you, Jo, for sharing your thoughts so honestly with us. I am sure other students will find this post inspiring. If anyone would like to read the first report from the project, you can download here. we look forward to sharing further updates with you