Dr. Elizabeth Steed and 6 graduate and doctoral students have just returned from a two-week study tour of early childhood intervention in the Republic of Georgia. Dr. Steed had been to the Republic of Georgia previously to conduct training in preschools as part of an Open Society Georgia grant. On the study tour that took place at the end of March, Dr. Steed and the students visited 4 inclusive preschool centers in 3 different cities. They also went on home visits with early interventionists providing services in families’ homes with young children with disabilities, met with non-profits that do work to support young children, and participated in a university-sponsored all-day workshop on inclusion.
It was a transformative learning experience for everyone where they had the opportunity to reflect on system characteristics that support or hinder the implementation of evidence-based practices and the influence of culture on practice. The students are bringing back new inspiration for their work as early childhood leaders and wonderful memories of good food, beautiful cities, and the lovely Georgians who are now friends.
