Pedagogy, Resources and Parental Choices in Preschools Education: Comparative Study of Anganwadi Centres and Private Preschools
Mr. Suraj Katkar
Assistant Professor,
Department of Sociology,
Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune.
Mob No: 7709463080
E-mail: katkarsuraj177@gmail.com
Abstract
This paper presents a comparative analysis of Anganwadi Centres and private preschools, two significant models of early childhood education in India. Anganwadi Centres, part of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, aim to provide holistic services, including health, nutrition, and early education, primarily to children from underprivileged backgrounds. These centres are crucial for promoting inclusive development but face challenges like limited infrastructure, inadequate resources, and lower teacher-to-student ratios, which can affect the quality of education. The main objective of this research is to evaluate the curriculum and pedagogical approaches of Anganwadi centres and private schools and to analyse the impacts of these institutions on child developmental outcomes indicator.
This research employs a qualitative methodology, using interviews, and observational studies across a representative sample of institutions in Parvati, Pune, to examine the structural, curricular, and pedagogical differences between Anganwadi Centres and private preschools. For this purpose, 4 Anganwadi centre and 4 private preschools where took as samples.
The findings reveal significant disparities in curriculum and pedagogical approaches. Anganwadi Centres emphasize inclusivity and community involvement, while private preschools focus on academic preparation and individualized attention. The paper concludes by recommending a balanced approach that combines the strengths of both models, integrating the inclusive nature of Anganwadi Centres with the high-quality educational practices of private preschools to ensure equitable and effective early childhood education.
Key Words: Childhood Education, Private Preschools, Comparative Analysis, Anganwadi Centres
DOI link – https://doi.org/10.69758/GIMRJ/2602I01VXIVP0002
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