Interviewing a Preschool Teacher on Positive Classroom Climate
This Application Assignment entails interviewing a preschool teacher in person or on the telephone in order to learn about the teacher’s philosophy and methods for creating a positive classroom climate, and for helping children develop prosocial skills/behaviors. Use the guidelines below to help you plan, conduct, and reflect on the interview.
Note: It is preferable that you work with a preschool that has been accredited by NAEYC. To locate NAEYC–accredited programs in your area, click on the link below:
http://www.naeyc.org/accreditation/search
Plan
Set up a time to interview a preschool teacher about classroom design, climate, adult interactions, and child interactions that foster and teach prosocial skills and behaviors.
Explain that you will need about 30–45 minutes of his/her time, and agree on a date and time.
Confirm your appointment
If possible, tape record the interview. Be sure to inform the person and obtain permission. Test your recorder in advance to be sure it works.
Review the readings and video program from this week.
Interview
Use the Guiding Questions (below). You may need to ask additional questions to better understand a point.
Keep in mind the following guidelines:
This is one person’s experience and perspective.
Be respectful of the person’s time and thank the teacher for his/her cooperation.
This interview experience is a chance for you to learn. Your role is not to criticize or offer advice.
Reflect
Considering what you have learned in your coursework, summarize the following:
Strengths of this teacher’s classroom design and climate, interactions with children, and interactions between children in his/her group
Insights that you gained about designing a positive environment, fostering a positive classroom climate, and teaching and guiding young children
Suggestions that you would make to the teacher with regard to classroom design, creating a positive classroom climate, and fostering positive guidance and prosocial behaviors/skills.
Submit
A summary of the interview
A summary of your reflection
Note: Do not use the last name of the teacher you interviewed and change the names of any children and families mentioned to be respectful of their privacy. Also, do not submit the Guiding Questions sheet as part of this Application.
Assignment length: Approximately 2 pages