FACTORS INFLUENCING EARLY CHILDHOOD IN-SERVICE TEACHER’S PEDAGOGICAL PRACTICES IN OYO STATE

Abstract

This study examined factors influencing early childhood in-service teacher’s pedagogical practices in Oyo State. Descriptive survey research design was used for the study. Simple random sampling technique was used to select one local government area in Oyo state. Random sampling technique was also used to select 10 public and 10 private primary schools, from each of the schools, 5 teachers were purposively selected. One (1) research instrument was used and three (3) research questions were raised. Data was analyzed using frequency count, percentage, mean, standard deviation and T-test. Findings shows that the extent of pedagogical practices displayed by teachers is high (Mean Average 3.76). Findings also shows that teaching experiences, beliefs and approaches, educational qualifications and cultural background, unique needs, abilities and interests of the children, school policies are factors influencing Early Childhood in-service teacher’s pedagogical practices. Also, there is a significant difference between private and public school pedagogical practice display (t=4.590; df=98; p<0.05). Teacher is aware of the instructional materials and method to build the teachers-pupils relationship effectively. It is recommended that strategies, methods approach the teachers displayed should improve and develop the pupil’s academics performance.