THE INNOVATIVE PEDAGOGICAL APPROACHES & CHALLENGES IN THE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION: INSIGHTS FROM SAUDI ARABIA

Dalal Aldhilan; Shahid Rafiq; Ayesha Afzal

Dalal Aldhilan Department of Kindergarten, College of Art & Sciences, Northern Border University, SAUDI ARABIA
Shahid Rafiq Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Emerson University, Multan, Punjab, Pakistan
Ayesha Afzal Assistant Professor, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan

Keywords: Early Childhood Education, Innovative Pedagogical Approaches, Educational Innovation, Thematic Analysis, Administrative Constraints

Abstract

Early childhood education is vital for children's foundational development. This study explores innovative pedagogical approaches in ECE settings in the Saudi Arabia, focusing on practices, challenges & strategies for improvement. Using thematic analysis of 60 semi-structured interviews with ECE teachers in Jeddah, key themes were identified like, play-based learning, technology integration, culturally responsive pedagogy, and collaborative learning. Play -based activities foster creativity & social skills; technology aids personalized learning & digital literacy; culturally reactive pedagogy supports inclusivity and identity formation; and collaborative learning enhances teamwork and communication skills. However, educators face challenges such as the limited resources, inadequate professional development, traditional cultural norms, & administrative constraints. Recommendations include increased resource investment, enhanced the professional development, community & parental engagement, flexible policies & the ongoing research. Therefore, addressing these challenges can foster environment conducive to educational innovation in Saudi Arabian ECE, contributing towards global discussions on effective educational practices.