Sweden - Centre for Early Childhood Development & Education

Chapter 4Sweden4.7.12 Pedagogical DocumentationPedagogical documentation is a mechanismof quality assurance and is pervasive inpractice in ECCE institutions. It is anapproach that is inclusive of multipleperspectives on quality as it integratesdifferent perspectives on quality.The collection of statistics on a range ofstructural features of quality in Swedenis an integral part of central governmentpolicy regarding ECCE and provides abasis for policy decisions.An integrated approach is adopted forchildren with special needs.4.7.13 ConclusionIn conclusion, on the strength of theevidence collected from Sweden, a numberof features of quality can be identifiedwhich are worth considering in thedevelopment of the National Frameworkfor Quality in Ireland:A unified system of care and educationis an important feature of ECCE inSweden.There is a single framework for a child'seducational experience at pre-primary,first and second level education.There is no single definition of qualityand considerable discretion is given tolocal municipalities regarding aspects ofquality. The curriculum provides aunifying framework for quality in ECCEservices. Highly qualified practitionerssupport this curriculum with access toprofessional development opportunities.While municipalities are responsible forthe monitoring of ECCE, inspectors arenow viewed as having a support anddevelopment role in promoting,supporting and developing quality.One unique feature of the ECCE sectorin Sweden is the use of networks tosupport quality in the ECCE sector.Other mechanisms for supportingquality include the widespread use ofpedagogical documentation and ageneral awareness and concern at asocietal level regarding some of theaspects of high quality childcare.59