Abstract
Preschool education requires articulate, reflective and highly qualified teachers. However, within the teaching field, it is claimed that preschool teachers have the lowest perception of their own professional status. Determining the preschool teachers’ professional standing is problematic and begins with preschool teachers’ sense of professionals self. Using a mixed methods research methodology, the study garnered quantitative as well as personal insights into preschool teachers’ perception of professional self. The findings showed that the preschool teachers have an emerging perception of professionalism. The study also highlighted the importance in providing opportunities as well as space for teamwork within supportive professional communities. To further enhance professional learning, the study findings also highlighted the role of supportive mentors. Teacher education and professional development programs, together with statutory and professional institutions have to take the lead to improve the profession. Importantly, the preschool community must continue to develop leaders in a landscape that is evolving quickly.
Highlights
Preschool education requires highly qualified, articulate and reflective teachers
Within the teaching field, it is claimed that preschool teachers have the lowest perception of their own professional status
The findings showed that the preschool teachers have an emerging perception of professionalism
Summary
Preschool education requires highly qualified, articulate and reflective teachers. studies have shown that the teaching field is seen to have a lower standing when compared to other vocations (Ingersoll & Mitchell, 2011). As well as in Singapore, the efforts included raising the professional standing of preschool teachers with requirements of recommended benchmarks such as knowledge, skills and professional development formed on sector-agreed criteria of practice for different roles and responsibilities in the sector (Chong & Lu, 2019). Despite these initiatives, preschool teachers continue to struggle with their lack of professional status. To show a strong commitment towards elevating the quality and status of the sector, the Singapore government announced an increase of spending in the five years for this sector from $850 million to $1.7 billion (Straits Times, August 20, 2017)
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