In this video, Father Laurence Freeman and Anne Graham, Australian researcher and academic, reflect on the important balance between the wisdom of children and the need to instruct, guide and protect them. Drawing from her own experience in childhood studies, Anne brings to our attention how researchers have historically seen children as human becomings, “human belongings”, rather than people in their own right.
“Do children have a legitimate offer that we could rely upon?” Working with children in the context of research, Anne talks of a significant gap: “We would do research about them but not with them”.
“Over the years, we’ve developed a far more respectful understanding of children as human beings and what they can tell us. Children do best when they are working collaboratively with adults. When it comes to ways in which we approach the research, we need to define tailored ways, safe methods. In the learning that we do, when we are present and in the kind of research I need to do, we need to create a space where we can really be present. “
“The emotional intelligence about what they feel comfortable to share, about their experiences is quite extraordinary.”
Anne Graham
Watch the full video between Anne and Father Laurence here:
About Anne Graham
Australian researcher and academic, Anne worked as a professor of childhood studies, leading research at a centre for children and young people. Anne Graham is Professor of Childhood Studies and Founding Director of the Centre for Children and Young People at Southern Cross University. A primary school teacher and sociologist by background, Anne has worked in teacher education for 20 years
*Top image by free stock photos from www.picjumbo.com from Pixabay
