ERIC Number: EJ1152625
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-2470-6353
EISSN: N/A
Action Research and Project Approach: Journey of an Early Childhood Pre-Service Teacher and a Teacher Educator
Wastin, Ellie; Han, H. Sophia
Networks: An Online Journal for Teacher Research, v16 n2 Article 7 Fall 2014
The purpose of this article is to share an action research study conducted by an early childhood pre-service teacher in a Kindergarten classroom. There were dual goals for this action research: (a) to enhance preservice teacher's questioning and classroom management strategies, and (b) to enhance Kindergarten children's scientific inquiry and knowledge. A teacher guided mini-project approach was adopted as a main instructional methodology for a "Rain and Water Cycle" project. Using video, we documented self-reflection and feedback. Through this experience, the pre-service teacher gained both knowledge and confidence. At the same time, the Kindergarten children took an active role in investigating the "Rain and Water Cycle" through a variety of hands-on learning experiences. Based upon children's work samples and other documentation, it was evident that their cognitive growth and learning, especially who were typically performing at the below grade level, was extensive. Challenges and possibilities related to pre-service teacher action research within the early childhood teacher preparation programs are shared. Ideas for adopting action research frameworks to reconceptualize early field internships are also discussed.
Descriptors: Action Research, Preservice Teacher Education, Preschool Teachers, Kindergarten, Questioning Techniques, Classroom Techniques, Inquiry, Preschool Children, Video Technology, Reflection, Feedback (Response), Knowledge Level, Self Esteem, Hands on Science, Experiential Learning, Internship Programs, Teacher Educators
New Prairie Press, Kansas State University Libraries. 137 Hale Library, Manhattan, KS 66506. e-mail: nppress@ksu.edu; Web site: http://newprairiepress.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A