Policy-Practice Gap on the Implementation of the Pre-School Education, Selected Government Schools in Sebata City Administration
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Date
2021-08
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AAU
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the essential process of preschools and to investigate the
view point of the policy practice gaps in preschools. The study considered school
principals, preschool teachers, expert from education office and parents of children.
Using the purposive sampling technique, 2 preschool principals, 4 preschool teachers,
1 expert and 2 parents of children were selected from Alemgena and Mulugeta Gedle
preschools in Sebata City Administrations in the academic year of 2020/2021. Data
were collected through interview questions, focus group discussion guiding questions
and observation checklists. The research design was qualitative approach guided by
four research questions. Based on the essential questions of the study, prosperous
information was obtained from the participants individually and in groups. Using the
obtained data, the study tried to point out the policy practice gaps on the
implementation of preschool education encountered. The data collected from the
participants were categorized into themes and interpreted as a result. The study found
that the accomplishment of holistic progress of children in the preschools were based
on teachers’ understanding of the how to practice and implement preschools according
to policy of preschool education and minimize the gaps. The study also exposed the lack
of commitment of the government to promote preschools education to the desired level.
Besides, findings of the study revealed that the appropriateness of ECE provision was
challenged and there are unqualified stake holders (experts, principals and teachers)
and lack of adequate physical learning environment and facilities as well as the large
class size. It is recommended that to implement the policy practice, all stake holders
must be well qualified and trained to assure quality education in preschools. By this
reference, implementation of the preschool curriculum, teacher’s guide and textbooks
must be found in the schools. Furthermore, lack of budgets and manpower should be
revised regarding by city education office and government. It would be better if the
government give attention to allocate ear marked budget and trained man power to
support pre-primary schools and help them run their work independently to the
required extent and give them awareness program about the use and objectives of
preschool educations
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Keywords
Practice gaps and implementation of preschool