ERIC Number: EJ979536
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0031-3831
EISSN: N/A
Conceptions of Finnish and Estonian Pre-School Teachers' Goals in Their Pedagogical Work
Niikko, Anneli; Ugaste, Aino
Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research, v56 n5 p481-495 2012
The purpose of this study is to describe the conceptions of the Finnish and Estonian pre-school teachers' goals, and the achievement of these goals in their pedagogical work. The study consisted of 60 (30 from each country) interviews with pre-school teachers. The interview data was analyzed phenomenographically. The findings showed that children play the most significant role in pre-school teachers' thought and action. The teachers of both countries emphasized children's holistic wellbeing, social development, learning and school readiness and an emotionally and socially safe environment. The teachers stressed, in similar ways, co-operation with families, teamwork with colleagues, and professional development. The goals were pursued through play, different activities, and interaction. The differences between teachers were linked to different aspects of these goals. The findings give a special cause to discuss play, school readiness, and environment.
Descriptors: School Readiness, Play, Preschool Teachers, Social Development, Teacher Attitudes, Goal Orientation, Interviews, Cross Cultural Studies, Phenomenology, Preschool Children, Well Being, Holistic Approach, Teaching Methods, Emotional Development, Educational Environment, Parent Teacher Cooperation, Teamwork, Professional Development, Learning Activities
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education; Preschool Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Estonia; Finland
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A