This paper has attempted to investigate how day care science activities have actually been implemented after exammmg both teacher perceptions and the reality of day care science activities in Chungbuk Province and the differences depending on the dive...
This paper has attempted to investigate how day care science activities have actually been implemented after exammmg both teacher perceptions and the reality of day care science activities in Chungbuk Province and the differences depending on the diversity of teacher backgrounds. This study is based on data received from 240 teachers of classes for 3, 4 and 5 year old children at day care centers in Chungbuk. To determine teacher perception and the reality of day care science activities through a questionnaire survey. Using SPSS 12.0, frequency and percentage were calculated. Furthennore, a cross tabulation analysis, ANOV A and t test were performed to find differences by background variables. As a result, the following result has been obtained: First, in terms of the frequency of day care science activities,
‘once or twice per week' was the highest number reported. In curriculum design, children’s developmental levels and interest were considered. Science activities are mostly performed using experiment or observation. In terms of approach, an experimental approach is the most widely used. In addition, children have mostly been reluctant to participate in science activities. Children’s science activities have been recorded in writing and painting.
Second, about 37.9% of dare care centers in Chungbuk evaluate children' s science activities. Among them, 36.3% has established a systematic evaluation plan. In terms of evaluation method, ‘evaluation by a classroom teacher at the end of each science activity’ was the most widely used. This approach is used to detennine young children’s interest and participation in science activities and their developmental and understanding levels. When asked about the reasons why evaluations were not performed, most day care centers pointed to ‘heavy workload’ and ‘no idea about evaluation methods.’ Third, most day care center teachers in Chungbuk agreed that indoor and outdoor science facilities were necessary for children’s efficient science activities. They also said that a development of scientific inquiry skills was the ultimate goal of science activities. In addition, they were fair‘ly aware of the necessity for an evaluation of the science activities and teacher training therein. Most teachers are not satisfied with (less than average) current science activities.
Fourth, day care center teachers in Chungbuk agreed that children’s science activities should be systematically developed by chapter and theme, with an overall curriculum designed by teachers and a special curriculum structured by both the classroom teacher and children. In terms of the frequency of science activities, ‘once or twice
per week' is the most preferred. The teachers also understand that an evaluation should be performed after establishing a systematic evaluation plan by activity.
Lastly, day care center teachers in Chungbuk were aware that it is necessary to select contents for science activities, have teachers receive teaching training and distribute various science activity programs and experimental data.
Based on the results of this study above, a customized teacher training program should be carried out on a regular basis, and related resources and data for the science activities should be distributed.
Keywords: science activity, teacher perception