Abstract

In order to explore the critical challenges and the actions of educational leaders and educators in safeguarding the educational outcomes of Early Childhood Education students during the pandemic, a qualitative case study was conducted in two Chilean universities with differing socio-economic characteristics. Through interviews, focus groups, and secondary data analysis, critical challenges were identified in terms of teaching conditions and new student needs, both administratively and pedagogically. These challenges were addressed through collaborative, innovative, and learning-focused pedagogical leadership, which was found to be even more influential than the socio-economic reality of the institutions and students. Additionally, the study highlights the learning, reflections, and pedagogical, curricular, and methodological innovations that can contribute to any future disruptions. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for contextualizing learning and its continuous monitoring, made possible by basing pedagogical leadership on horizontal human relationships.