PUBLISHED
November 9, 2023
A Mixed Methods Study on Infants’ Experiences of Involvement in Infant Care Centres in Singapore
Authors:
Cynthia Tan
Source:
PECERA 2022
Type:
Expert Article
Subjects:
Active Involvement, Infant care, Learning quality
Keywords:
Infants, Interaction, Involvement
Abstract:
A key indicator of learning in early childhood education is children’s involvement. However, most studies today focus on preschoolers rather than infants and toddlers aged 2 to 18 months. This study examines infants’ experiences of involvement in infant care centres (ICCs) in Singapore. Using a mixed methods approach, qualitative and quantitative data were collected from 36 infants in 6 ICCs. The findings indicate that 50% of ICCs scored average involvement levels, suggesting a supportive educational environment. Qualitative findings show that infants experience involvement through infant-space interactions and infant-adult interactions. Therefore, promoting free movement and reciprocal interactions between infants and educators may enhance involvement levels.
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