OVERVIEW OF RESEARCH ON THE FORMATION AND DEVELOPMENT HUMAN AWARENESS OF RESPECT FOR DIFFERENCES IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN

In the context of educational reform and international integration, early childhood classrooms are increasingly characterized by diversity. Respect for differences is therefore being reconceptualized as a foundational value linked to human development, social equity, and educational quality assurance. Internationally, research on respect for differences has developed across philosophy, ethics, sociology, psychology, and education. However, there remains a lack of integrative reviews that explicate how the conceptual content of respect for differences is translated from these foundational disciplines into early childhood education. Using an integrative review approach, this article systematizes the historical origins and conceptual essence of respect for differences. It analyzes related trajectories in cognitive development along with their educational implications for preschool children. The review clarifies a theoretical shift from foundational perspectives (Philosophy, Ethics, and Sociology) toward psychological and educational frameworks relevant to early childhood education. It proposes directions for future research to advance respect-for differences education in early childhood education in Vietnam.