Core Competencies for Inclusive Early Childhood Educators: A Systematic Review

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Title: Core Competencies for Inclusive Early Childhood Educators: A Systematic Review
Language: English
Authors: Jamil Suprihatiningrum, Nur Listiawati, Yendri Wirda, Simon Sili Sabon, Siswantari, Betti Nuraini
Source: IAFOR Journal of Education. 2025 13(3):525-553.
Availability: International Academic Forum. Sakae 1-16-26 - 201 Naka Ward, Nagoya Aichi, Japan 460-0008. Tel: +81-50-5806-3184; Web site: http://iafor.org
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 29
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Information Analyses
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Descriptors: Literature Reviews, Meta Analysis, Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Teachers, Core Competencies, Teacher Competencies, Inclusion, Knowledge Base for Teaching, Teacher Education, Educational Practices
ISSN: 2187-0594
Abstract: This Systematic Literature Review (SLR) synthesizes findings from 41 peer-reviewed empirical studies published between 2015 and 2025 to identify the core competencies required for inclusive early childhood educators. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, the review employed a structured search across four academic databases and applied thematic synthesis to analyze competency frameworks across diverse educational contexts. Seven competency domains were identified, that is, differentiation and curriculum adaptation, collaborative practice, inclusive knowledge and disability awareness, positive attitudes and inclusive values, assistive and educational technology use, reflective practice, and psychological readiness. The findings demonstrate the interconnectedness of competencies with reflective practice as the fundamental core of teacher competency. Psychological readiness, encompassing emotional resilience and self-identity development, is an under-discussed domain in the existing literature. Competency development in this study is depicted as a recursive and continuous spiral model. This study recommends unifying the previously fragmented literature on inclusive education and emphasizing the emotional and responsive preparation of teachers to various contexts and changes. The review offers implications for curriculum designers, policymakers, and researchers, advocating a shift from short-term technical interventions to long-term, holistic frameworks grounded in justice-oriented pedagogy.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1494043
Database: ERIC
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  Data: Core Competencies for Inclusive Early Childhood Educators: A Systematic Review
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  Data: International Academic Forum. Sakae 1-16-26 - 201 Naka Ward, Nagoya Aichi, Japan 460-0008. Tel: +81-50-5806-3184; Web site: http://iafor.org
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  Data: This Systematic Literature Review (SLR) synthesizes findings from 41 peer-reviewed empirical studies published between 2015 and 2025 to identify the core competencies required for inclusive early childhood educators. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, the review employed a structured search across four academic databases and applied thematic synthesis to analyze competency frameworks across diverse educational contexts. Seven competency domains were identified, that is, differentiation and curriculum adaptation, collaborative practice, inclusive knowledge and disability awareness, positive attitudes and inclusive values, assistive and educational technology use, reflective practice, and psychological readiness. The findings demonstrate the interconnectedness of competencies with reflective practice as the fundamental core of teacher competency. Psychological readiness, encompassing emotional resilience and self-identity development, is an under-discussed domain in the existing literature. Competency development in this study is depicted as a recursive and continuous spiral model. This study recommends unifying the previously fragmented literature on inclusive education and emphasizing the emotional and responsive preparation of teachers to various contexts and changes. The review offers implications for curriculum designers, policymakers, and researchers, advocating a shift from short-term technical interventions to long-term, holistic frameworks grounded in justice-oriented pedagogy.
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  Data: 2026
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      – Text: English
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        PageCount: 29
        StartPage: 525
    Subjects:
      – SubjectFull: Literature Reviews
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Meta Analysis
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Early Childhood Education
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Early Childhood Teachers
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Core Competencies
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Teacher Competencies
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Inclusion
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Knowledge Base for Teaching
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Teacher Education
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Educational Practices
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      – TitleFull: Core Competencies for Inclusive Early Childhood Educators: A Systematic Review
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