DEVELOPMENT OF A COACHING PROGRAM TO ENHANCE EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHERS’ SKILLS IN DESIGNING ACTIVE LEARNING ACTIVITIES

Abstract

This research article aimed to: 1) Investigate the components and indicators, current conditions, desirable conditions, and priority needs for developing a coaching program to enhance early childhood teachers’ skills in designing active learning activities; 2) Develop and validate the coaching program; 3) Implement the program; and 4) Evaluate the outcomes of program implementation within the context of child development centers. This study employed a four-phase research and development (R&D) approach using mixed methods research. The sample and key informants consisted of: 1) 368 administrators and early childhood teachers; 2) 9 experts; and 3) 15 early childhood teachers participating in the program implementation. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on their professional experience and involvement in early childhood education. Research instruments included questionnaires, interview forms, program evaluation forms, active learning activity design skills assessment forms, program implementation evaluation forms, and satisfaction questionnaires. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and paired-samples t-test statistics. The findings revealed that the program comprised five components: 1) Learning management activities, 2) Learning materials, 3) Learning support resources, 4) Academic support, and 5) Participation in supervision, monitoring, and evaluation, encompassing a total of 19 indicators. The program demonstrated high levels of appropriateness, feasibility, congruence, and usefulness. Early childhood teachers’ skills in designing active learning activities after participating in the program were significantly higher than before participation at the .05 level of statistical significance. Overall, the evaluation of program implementation was at the highest level, with the quality of children aged 2-4 years receiving the highest mean score, while overall satisfaction with the program was at a high level.