Development of a kindergarten teacher training model using collaborative inquiry process and comtemplative learning to enhance professional competencies
Abstract:
The purposes of this study were to 1) develop a kindergarten teacher training model using collaborative inquiry process and contemplative learning to enhance professional competencies, and 2) study the effects of teachers professional competencies on the kindergarten teacher training model using collaborative inquiry process and contemplative learning to enhance professional competencies in knowledge, working performance, and self-performance. The research participants were six kindergarten teachers of office of the private education commission, Bangkok. The study design was a research and development using qualitative methods to collect data. The research procedure was divided into 4 steps which were 1) the preparation, 2) the development model for the initial phase, 3) the development model for the revised phase, and 4) the presentation of the revised kindergarten teacher training model using collaborative inquiry process and contemplative learning to enhance professional competencies. The research results were: 1. The kindergarten teacher training model using collaborative inquiry process and contemplative learning to enhance professional competencies consisted of concept, objectives, content, process, and evaluation. The process of the kindergarten teacher training model using collaborative inquiry process and contemplative learning to enhance professional competencies consisted of 4 steps including 1) forming 2) creating 3) acting, and 4) making meaning. Each step was consisted of 3 process, 1) dialogue 2) deep listening, and 3) learning reflection. The content of the model consisted of child development, learning instruction, working collaborative with people whom related to children, being role model, and pride of teacher professional. The duration of experiment was 12 weeks. 2. The kindergarten teacher training model using collaborative inquiry process and contemplative learning had the effect on enhancing professional competencies. All teacher participants behaviors level of professional competencies in knowledge and in working performance increased two level higher. Also the behaviors level of professional competencies in self- performance increased three level higher.