Abstract:
The purpose of this ethnographic study was to examine the preschool educational
program of Wider Scope Orphanage preschool (WSOP), and trace characteristics of
effective / quality preschools as presented by NAEYC. These included clear vision,
goals, values, and beliefs; well designed physical environment; well designed
curriculum; professional development and leadership; constant assessment of children's
progress; and parents' involvement. Based on the study findings, a new design and
layout for the new preschool floor was designed based on theories for effective physical
environment in quality preschools as suggested by the literature. Observations, field
notes, videotaping, photos, interviews, two rating scales, a checklist, and collection of
school documents were the instruments used to reach validated results. Findings showed
that WSOP lacked a vision that changed according to the needs of the children and department, and did not have a general written plan of the curriculum that reflected the
preschool philosophy, principles, instructional methods, and general objectives and
goals that covered all areas of children's development. Although teachers were loving
and caring and believed that they followed the constructive philosophy, results showed
that their instructional methods, lesson plans, and the preschool physical environment
did not align with the preschool's belief. Further, although teachers were enrolled in
workshops, some of the workshops did not cater for their needs, and there was absence
of social workers and specialized teachers for children with problems. Children were assessed through graded exams, and many children repeated the preschool classes
because of their frequent absences. Parents' involvement was restricted to information
exchange and celebrations.
