The purpose of this study was to develop a model training program for cooperation teachers based on current research findings in the field and the needs of kindergarten teachers. A finial model training program for cooperating teachers was developed a...
The purpose of this study was to develop a model training program for cooperation teachers based on current research findings in the field and the needs of kindergarten teachers. A finial model training program for cooperating teachers was developed after implementing, evaluating, and amending the pilot program. The objectives of the program are (1) to recognize cooperating teachers` roles, (2) to assist them in understanding student teachers and promote helpful relationships between the two (3) to promote a disposition toward professional support of teaching methods and clinical supervision, and (4) to improve the reflective thinking of cooperating teachers. The contents of the program are (1) orientation of the training program for cooperating teachers, (2) cooperating teachers` roles, (3) attributes of student teachers, (4) reliable relationships with student teachers, (5) support for effective teaching, (6) clinical supervision, (7) reflective thinking, and (8) guidance of children. The content of the relationship between parents and kindergarten management follows the course. The teaching methods are varied and included lectures, discussions, role play, case-studies. workshops, and audio-visual teaching. Program participants are experienced teachers of kindergartens, and the trainers of cooperating teachers are professors of universities or colleges. Total training period of cooperating teachers should be 25 hours, but training season, time, and period can be managed flexibly according to teachers` schedules. The training program for cooperating teachers can be operated at universities or colleges of student teachers. Training equipment, a quiet atmosphere, and comfortable tables and seats are essential to the success of the training.