ERIC Number: EJ1037041
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014-Aug
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0020-7187
EISSN: N/A
Utilizing a Global Environmental Assessment Tool to Facilitate Professional Development: The Voices of Kindergarten Teachers in Italy
Cecconi, Luciano; Stegelin, Dolores A.; Pintus, Andrea; Allegri, Rossana
International Journal of Early Childhood, v46 n2 p205-229 Aug 2014
This international research project examined the value of utilizing an early childhood program assessment instrument as a tool for in-service professional development and self-reflection for kindergarten teachers in Parma, Italy. Teacher educators from universities in Italy and the USA conducted the study collaboratively. Goals of the study were to engage the kindergarten teachers in testing the ACEI-GGA tool in Italy for validity and reliability; utilize the tool as a means of self-reflection and study of the classroom context; and enhance the teachers' feelings and attitudes about the program assessment process. Data sources were the kindergarten teachers who utilized ACEI-GGA tool in their classrooms as a means of evaluating their practices and determining the clarity and ease of use of the assessment tool in Italian kindergarten classrooms. Teacher responses provided the researchers with helpful information on the clarity of the items across the five content areas or domains, especially the content area related to "serving children with special needs and their families." Results indicate that the kindergarten teachers benefited from the use of the program assessment tool for professional development purposes. In addition, the kindergarten teachers provided helpful feedback on the clarity and usefulness of the tool.
Descriptors: Kindergarten, Teacher Attitudes, Foreign Countries, Faculty Development, Reflection, Teacher Educators, Measurement Techniques, Educational Practices, Self Evaluation (Individuals), Special Needs Students, Parent Teacher Cooperation, Feedback (Response)
Springer. 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-348-4505; e-mail: service-ny@springer.com; Web site: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2189
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Kindergarten; Primary Education; Early Childhood Education; Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Italy
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A