Toward a hybrid model of quality for Quebec early childhood education: A structured group approach with diverse stakeholders

Abstract

Although extensive research has demonstrated the benefits of high-quality early childhood education, established quality frameworks often overlook the perspectives of stakeholders who are central to local improvement. Leveraging Quebec, Canada’s tradition of exemplary early childhood education (ECE), this study explored the concept of ECE quality with multiple stakeholder groups across the province, including parents, educators, administrators, and researchers. A structured group concept-mapping process identified seven components that participants saw as important for excellence in center-based early childhood education, including ideas not present in established quality frameworks. Participants viewed an exemplary ECE center as one that (1) offers children choices and stimulating learning experiences based on exploration and play, (2) adopts best practices in ECE, (3) ensures that staff have developmentally sensitive knowledge and skills, (4) provides professional support and good working conditions for staff, (5) partners with families and the community, (6) values diversity and inclusion, and (7) offers a stimulating physical and nutritional environment. These results suggest a Quebec-specific model of ECE quality spanning multiple ecological levels that reflects widely accepted scientific concepts as well as locally relevant ideas emerging from stakeholders’ perspectives. In addition to suggesting components for a Quebec-specific, stakeholder-driven model of quality, the research described in this article offers ideas and methods for similar initiatives in other contexts.