An analysis of the opinions and practices preschool teachers on early literacy

The purpose of this study is to identify the views of preschool teachers on early literacy and their practices. The study group of the research is comprised of twenty preschool teachers who work at preschools and kindergartens that are in the province of Ordu. While determining the study group, the criterion sampling method, which is one of the purposive sampling methods, has been used. In the research, the basic qualitative research design, which is one of the qualitative research methods, has been preferred; the data collected in the research has been analysed by content analysis method. In the research; the findings obtained through interview and observation method have been gathered under the themes of early literacy concept, practices regarding early literacy, early literacy classroom environment, encountered problems and solution proposals. When teachers' definitions of early literacy have been examined, it has been observed that most of the teachers are aware of these concepts but they don't know what they comprise in terms of content. In the early literacy study findings, it has been concluded that the teachers have mostly been doing literacy preparation activities and Turkish learning activities; and that during these activities they have mostly used game-based learning. However, it has been determined that teachers' practices don't vary and sound-based activities have generally been conducted. It has been concluded that the teachers have tried to organize centres in the classroom environment but they have been experiencing difficulties in organizing centres due to lack of materials, equipment and a lack of knowledge; the observation method has been the most preferred method while evaluating children and that the teachers have sent worksheets to their home as a means of parental involvement.