The aim of the experience abroad for KIWI pedagogical specialists was to get to know other elementary pedagogical standards, concepts and approaches of kindergarten practice by Job-Shadowing in FRÖBEL kindergartens, to exchange professional knowledge with the staff, compare understandings and approaches beyond a national understanding and to share and contribute their experiences to KIWI. Observing national and pedagogical peculiarities and having expert discussions with the pedagogues from the partner organization should contribute to a cultural sensitization and appreciation of differences, similarities and cultural diversity. Furthermore, it strengthens the awareness of the own national and corporate framework and options for designing educational work in Vienna. The educators had the opportunity to broaden their horizons and, in addition to their professional experience, to bring a stronger attitude of cultural openness to KIWI, from which their colleagues as well as children and their families benefit. The Job-Shadowing should promote the reflection and further development of the participants’ pedagogical practice and bring ideas to extend pedagogic concepts for KIWI at organizational level.
KIWI has set itself the task of constantly reviewing, discussing and improving the pedagogical basis in order to maintain the high pedagogical quality in the kindergartens and after-school care centers. Parallel to the demands of the parents, the demands on pedagogical specialists and day-care centers are also increasing from the political and economic side. The professional exchange with other European kindergartens is becoming more and more important for KIWI in order to learn from each other how to do valuable pedagogical work in a changing society and how to best accompany and support children - the adults of tomorrow - on their first step into society. In order to meet these demands educators and pedagogical institutions are required to remain sensitive and open, to constantly review and further develop their skills with regard to communication, professional activity and framework conditions.