New scholarship will support research in early childhood education

January 24, 2019
 

A lifelong champion of early childhood education, the late Dr. Barbara Corbett remains a source of inspiration for many teachers and education students who share her belief that children's education must begin with their own natural activity—learning through play.

This belief, along with her passion for teaching, led the OISE alumna to found the Froebel Foundation, an organization dedicated to furthering childhood education based on the principles of 19th century German educator Friedrich Froebel.

For Dr. Corbett, there was nothing more important than ensuring that children received the best education possible, and that educators were well-equipped with the knowledge to teach them.

For this reason, the Froebel Foundation has made a generous gift to establish the Friedrich Froebel Early Childhood Education Scholarship for graduate students in OISE’s Child Study and Education Program. The scholarship will support students conducting research in early childhood education methods, including Froebel’s approach and philosophy that education should focus on social and personal growth as well as academic development that reaches beyond the classroom.

This important scholarship will help talented future educators overcome financial barriers to study and success, while honouring Dr. Corbett’s vision of a holistic approach to education. The knowledge scholarship winners will gain through research will further expand their understanding and enrich their practice in the field of early childhood education for years to come. 

“We are so grateful to the Froebel Foundation for their generosity and commitment to continue the legacy of Dr. Corbett’s work,” said OISE Dean Glen Jones. “This scholarship will provide important financial assistance for our students and play a key role in supporting the next generation of great teachers and educational professionals.”