Abstract
BackgroundWorking conditions of nursery school teachers have not been scrutinized thoroughly in scientific research. Only a few studies have so far examined work-load and strain in this profession. Preferably, subjective perceptions should be corroborated by data that can be quantified more objectively and accurately. The aim of the present observational field study was to evaluate pedagogical staffs' workflow.MethodsIn 2009 eleven educators in a day care centre were observed throughout three complete workdays. A total of 250 working hours were recorded.ResultsAn educators' workday lasted on average 07:46:59 h (SD = 01:01:10 h). Within this time span, an average of 02:20:46 h (30.14%, SD = 00:28:07 h) were spent on caring, 01:44:18 h on playing (22.33%, SD = 00:54:12 h), 00:49:37 h on educational work (10.62%, SD = 00:40:09), and only 00:05:38 h on individual child contact (1.21%, SD = 00:04:58 h).ConclusionFor the first time, educators' workflow in day care centres was studied in real time. Some of the educators' self-reported problems were corroborated. The results of this study form a basis upon which further investigations can be built and measures can be developed for an overall improvement of child care.
Highlights
The PISA study (Programme for International Student Assessment) of the OECD comparing education among 15-year-olds in more than 30 countries showed that scholar performance of German pupils ranked low in the list of participating countries
The overwhelming majority of participants hold a degree as early childhood educator (90.9%), only one hold a university degree in education
The current study is the first of its kind to investigate the workflow of pedagogical staff in a German day care centre and as such, provides a valuable basis for future studies
Summary
The PISA study (Programme for International Student Assessment) of the OECD comparing education among 15-year-olds in more than 30 countries showed that scholar performance of German pupils ranked low in the list of participating countries. Working conditions of pedagogical staff are not very well studied. This profession is subject to several psychosocial requirements [2]. Stress in this job is mainly caused by an interaction of minor strains which sum up in their negative effect [3]. Beside caring and educational duties pedagogical staff is confronted with additional tasks from a changed market situation It is important to maintain the health of pedagogical staff in day care centres and to promote it. The aim of the present observational field study was to evaluate pedagogical staffs’ workflow
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