The term Context refers to connection, coherence in discourse, also, interrelated conditions in which something exist or occurs (Winegar and Valsiner, 1992). According to relational meta-model as propounded by Damon and Lerner (2008) human development can be understood by analysis of integral individual-context as he or she cohabit in respective level multiplicity of operating factors including family, school, traditions, media and legal system. Similarly, in the Tanzanian Constitution and the United Nations Convention for rights of children as dictated in Child Development Policy in Tanzania (URT, 1996) “a child” is a person below eighteen years old and his/her development is a function of physical, intellectual, moral and spiritual growth (URT, 1996). The child development policy also shows that children make an important segment of the Tanzanian society constituting about 46% of the approximately 46 million population. Studies show that in order for a child to grow well, she/he needs to be cared for, given guidance, and brought up in accordance to norms of the community. Therefore, the gross conceptualization of children in any given time and space can best be understood by accounting respective contextual factors as will be discussed there-after in this paper. The discussion will provide a descriptive understanding of important issues for assuring and guaranteeing the well being of a child development.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Theoretical Background
Children Developmental Context in Tanzania
1. Family Aspect
2. School Aspect
3. Traditions and Culture
4. Media
5. Legal
Conclusion
Research Objectives and Themes
This paper aims to provide a descriptive understanding of the developmental contexts of children in Tanzania by examining how various ecological factors—such as family, school, traditions, media, and the legal system—interact to influence the overall well-being and growth of a child.
- The impact of family structures and networks on early childhood development.
- The role of the schooling process in promoting student adaptation and social integration.
- The influence of traditional cultural practices and the philosophy of "ubuntu" on child socialization.
- The effects of globalization and media accessibility on children's behavioral development.
- The function of the legal system and government policy in protecting children's rights.
Excerpt from the Book
1. Family Aspect
Family is considered prima facie context not only for infant first experiences, but also for child development who can learn some social and moral standards which are considered important in order to be accepted in particular community by interacting with the members of the family including, parents, grandparents, siblings and others, (Kreppner, 1992; URT, 1996).
In Tanzanian contexts, family like in many other societies is the fundamental unit of biological relationship between individuals in a clan or tribe, community or particular society (Kopoka, 2000). The definition of “family’ is subsumed not only from the view of the welfare of a household, but also, from larger network of relationships (Kamuzora, 2000). Consequently, two relatively distinct entities can be outlined, in this case, immediate family (i.e., father, mother, and children) and extended family/ family network ,which includes not only biological parents and their children, but also, the aunts, uncles, grandparents and siblings, as well as half-sibling, parents’ half-siblings, sometimes include family friends (Ksoll, 2007). Generally, it is not uncommon for responsibility of taking care of the child or children to be a collective duty in for most of African families.
The above observations are complemented by a research conducted by Citizen Commission on Human Rights (2004) revealed that early childhood is a time of tremendous growth and development for children in every way: physical, social, emotional, and intellectual. Hence, good quality early life experiences, including that provided exclusively by families help children to meet their needs can enhance children’s resiliency and promote optimal child development. It is in the same contention that family members make the first teachers are essential for proper children development.
Summary of Chapters
Introduction: This section defines the term "context" within child development and highlights the demographic significance of children in the Tanzanian population.
Theoretical Background: This chapter introduces developmental systems theory and the ecological approach, emphasizing how physical and social settings shape human development.
Children Developmental Context in Tanzania: This section serves as the main body, analyzing five key influential factors affecting children in Tanzania.
1. Family Aspect: Examines the family as the primary unit of socialization and the critical role of both immediate and extended family networks in early development.
2. School Aspect: Discusses the function of schools as institutions that promote adaptation and identity formation, while acknowledging challenges like teacher shortages.
3. Traditions and Culture: Explores tribal customs, circumcision rites like "Jando" and "Unyago," and the integration of "ubuntu" philosophy in traditional education.
4. Media: Analyzes the influence of modern media and technology on children’s behavior and the lack of media literacy preparation in Tanzania.
5. Legal: Reviews the legislative frameworks, such as the Constitution and the Marriage Act, designed to protect child rights in Tanzania.
Conclusion: Summarizes that while children in Tanzania share universal developmental needs, their outcomes are significantly mediated by economic status, institutional efficiency, and social context.
Keywords
Child Development, Tanzania, Ecological Theory, Context, Family, Schooling, Traditions, Culture, Ubuntu, Media, Globalization, Legal Framework, Children's Rights, Socialization, Education
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research?
The research explores the various developmental contexts that influence the growth and well-being of children in Tanzania, moving beyond the individual to the ecological systems surrounding them.
What are the central themes discussed in the paper?
The central themes include the roles of family, school, cultural traditions, media, and legal protections in shaping a child's cognitive, physical, and social development.
What is the main objective of this study?
The objective is to provide a descriptive understanding of the complex, multifaceted factors that impact children in Tanzania to ensure and guarantee their optimal development.
Which scientific methodology is utilized?
The paper utilizes a theoretical approach based on developmental systems theory and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model of human development to analyze the interaction between children and their environments.
What does the main body of the text cover?
The main body investigates five specific influential sectors: the family aspect, the school environment, traditional cultural practices, the impact of modern media, and the current legal protections for children.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
Key terms include Child Development, Tanzania, Ecological Theory, Ubuntu, Socialization, and Legal Framework.
How does the "ubuntu" philosophy influence traditional education mentioned in the text?
The "ubuntu" philosophy promotes values such as generosity, respect, and humane-ness, which are taught during non-formal traditional ceremonies to prepare children for adulthood.
What concern is raised regarding the media in Tanzania?
The text highlights that while media access has increased, there is a lack of pedagogical intervention to prepare children to be media-literate and responsible consumers of information.
How does the author relate economic status to child development?
The author notes that children from economically flourishing and urban areas often have better access to quality schools and stronger legal protections compared to those in poor or rural areas.
- Quote paper
- Yazidu Saidi Mbalamula (Author), 2014, Understanding the Developmental Contexts of Children: A Case of Tanzania, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/271543
