#Japan #Yokohama #YMCA #Konnect Labo #Manazashi Project

The Eye-Opening 'Manazashi Project' at YMCA Izumi Nursery School

The 'Manazashi Project,' a unique initiative implemented at the YMCA Izumi Nursery School in Yokohama, aims to improve the quality of nursery education by recording and sharing teachers' perspectives through video. Operated by Asuka Corporation, under the leadership of CEO Yoshizumi Hagino, this project is part of the broader 'Konnect Labo' research initiative, which seeks to connect children and their futures while enhancing childcare quality through collaboration among educators.

Meeting Future Challenges in Childcare

In recent years, the diversity in childcare needs has increased significantly. This trend necessitates a swift enhancement in the professionalism of childcare workers and an organizational focus on improving the quality of education. As more families with varied backgrounds utilize childcare services, the importance of collaboration and information sharing among teachers has become paramount. With this increasing complexity in values and experiences, relying solely on past practices for staff training and cooperation no longer ensures stable and effective staffing. A systematic approach to continuous learning and mutual support is now essential.

Introducing the 'Manazashi Project'

Recognizing these challenges, the 'Manazashi Project' was designed to visualize and share the implicit skills and considerations of childcare workers by recording their perspectives on video. This new approach not only facilitates learning among staff members but also aims to strengthen the overall quality of education offered at the institution

At YMCA Izumi Nursery School, which accommodates 120 children, video recordings were captured from the viewpoints of both lead teachers and assistant teachers during regular activities. By simultaneously sharing these perspectives among all staff, the project aimed to enhance the quality of childcare and promote mutual understanding.

Insights from Participating Teachers

Teachers involved in the project shared their experiences and insights, highlighting the effectiveness of the videos in fostering lively discussions about childcare practices.

• - T's Reflection (Lead Teacher for Ages 4-5): "Watching the videos made it easier to communicate ideas since we were all looking at the same thing."
• - K's Reflection (Assistant Teacher): "The footage allowed us to observe the dynamics between teachers and children from an objective standpoint, which simplified the process of sharing information and reflecting on our practices."

Ideas for Video Utilization

Participants were also encouraged to share ideas on how to make the most of the videos:

• - T: "I learned a lot by observing the assistant teacher's interactions, which I usually miss. If we plan better ahead, we can provide children who need special attention with more options."
• - K: "This project helped me realize how we all handle our responsibilities and now I understand how the leading teacher engages with students while I was supporting them."

Feedback Sessions Enrich Learning

The project's feedback sessions offered a platform for teachers to reflect on each other's videos, encouraging deeper insights into their practices. Many educators found that seeing children's behaviors and remarks through video provided clarity that could easily be forgotten in memory.

Not only did these sessions reinforce the significance of effective communication among staff, but they also highlighted the critical importance of assistant teachers in maintaining a smooth educational flow for children.

Embracing New Methods

Yumiko Mori, the principal at YMCA Izumi Nursery School, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, calling it a new style of internal training. She remarked on how reviewing the footage brings up both reflection points and moments worth celebrating, ultimately leading to a greater appreciation among staff members.

Associate Principal Yuji Chikamaru also noted the project helped staff better understand the children's ability to express feelings through their behaviors, making it a pivotal experience that transcended conventional learning environments.

The project is characterized by its innovative method of utilizing technology to transform routine training into a powerful learning experience that fosters collaboration and strengthens the concept of community within the childcare sector.

Conclusion

The 'Manazashi Project' represents a leap forward in childcare methodology, blending technology with an understanding of human connection to elevate educational practices. As this pilot at YMCA Izumi Nursery School sets a precedent, anticipation builds for similar implementations in other facilities, marking a new era in holistic education that empowers both teachers and children.

For more information about the 'Manazashi Project' and the Konnect Labo initiative, visit Konnect Labo.