The purpose of this study was to investigate the experience of early childhood teachers within a continuity of care through the voices of teachers themselves. The research problems considered are as follows: First, what are the experiences of early ch...
The purpose of this study was to investigate the experience of early childhood teachers within a continuity of care through the voices of teachers themselves. The research problems considered are as follows: First, what are the experiences of early childhood teachers in a continuity of care when it comes to toddler classes? Second, how do teachers perceive and demand support within this system? The study explored and analyzed the significance of this particular care for early childhood teachers, their motivations and experiences in toddler day care centers, and the support strategies they require.
This qualitative case study used a snowball sampling method, from which five early childhood (toddler) teachers were selected who had worked within a continuity of care. Data was examined via within-case and case-to-case analysis by Stake. Within-case analysis involved a detailed examination of each case to reveal teachers' motivations, concerns, efforts, childcare experiences, changes in their roles, and support demands. Case-to-case coding was performed to analyze comparing and categorizing units of content that were fundamentally similar or relevant to the experiences of early childhood teachers in the aforementioned care. 5 upper categories, 16 lower categories, and 44 semantic units were derived from these results.
The results obtained through the data analysis are as follows: First, early childhood teachers who experienced the continuity of care system took on such assignments due to their own voluntary desire, and the encouragement of their director. This factor highlights the need to consider teachers' understanding of, and ability with, continuity of care, including their voluntary commitment, enthusiasm, and personality when making assignment decisions. Second, after the system was established, results suggested that early childcare teachers felt a sense of burden when providing support to children and parents during the preparation for a new semester. However, they also made various efforts by organizing their environment and conducting educational research to understand children's characteristics when preparing for the new semester. This result indicates how continuity of care systems have both positive and negative effects: by enabling teachers to grow as childcare professionals, yet also presenting concerns and burdens related to supporting children and parents. Third, teachers perceived growth and changes in peer relationships, play, and parent relationships. Stable and trusting relations between teachers, children, and parents based on continuity allowed for higher-quality childcare: during play, and by fostering a more conducive environment. Fourth, teachers were able to develop their own sense of responsibility and professionalism when supporting the children's development, play, and parent relationships, leading to a sense of pride and fulfillment. These findings suggest that experiencing a continuity of care system can enhance teachers' expertise and contribute to improving the quality of childcare. Finally, to establish a high-quality continuity of care system, teachers continuously pondered their approach and made consistent efforts to improve. They requested opportunities for classroom reassignment to facilitate smooth transitions and demanded support such as teacher learning communities and teacher training.
This study thoroughly examined the experiences of early childcare teachers within a continuity of care system, including their perceptions, experiences, support demands, and strategies through specific cases. The findings presented herein provide an opportunity for early childcare teachers who are experiencing or considering such an approach (as well as directors contemplating assignment decisions) to reflect on the system and receive practical assistance. Furthermore, by presenting practical cases, the results are expected to serve as foundational data for early childhood care policies and the qualitative improvement of childcare.