Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Advanced Research in Education
Year: 2024
DOI:
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The Challenges Facing Preschool Teachers to Enhance the Oral Language Skills of Young Learners in the Batticaloa District, Sri Lanka
Soba Balasundaram
ABSTRACT:
Preschool education plays an essential role in preparing children for a lifetime of learning and comprehensive growth. Language study in early years enhances children’s oral language abilities for lifelong growth, and preschool teachers play a vital role in this. This research examined the challenges facing preschool teachers in their attempt to enhance the oral language skills of young children. The research engaged a mixed method approach, gathering both qualitative and quantitative data through a survey and interviews. Eight preschool teachers participated in the survey and two preschool administrators were interviewed. Several challenges have been identified to enhance the oral language abilities improvement of young learners including inadequate technological aids, no standard curriculum, and a lack of training programs. Regarding these challenges, the study revealed that the government and administrators provided some support to preschool teachers. However, due to insufficient support for all preschool teachers, they continue to face challenges in improving young learners’ oral language skills. Thus, this research recommended that technological aids, be provided, designing a standard curriculum, and a National Preschool Teachers’ Training program for all preschools. This will support teachers to ensure quality teaching and children can receive high-quality preschool education in the Batticaloa District of Sri Lanka.
keywords: Administrators, Curriculum, Preschool Education, Technological aids, and Training program