Examination of preschool teachers' views on early literacy practices

This research aimed to examine the opinions of preschool teachers regarding early literacy practices. The research was conducted using the case study design, one of the qualitative research methods. The study group of the research consisted of 25 preschool teachers working in official kindergartens and kindergartens affiliated with the Ministry of National Education in the province of Muş in the 2022-2023 academic year, selected by "Criteria Sampling", one of the purposeful sampling methods. As a data collection tool in the research; "General Information Form" developed by the researcher and a semi-structured interview form named "Examination of Preschool Teachers' Opinions on Early Literacy Practices", developed by the researcher and revised by taking expert opinions, were used. In the study, the findings were obtained by taking the opinions of the teachers. Codings were determined with MAXQDA. Then, categories and themes were created by the researcher. According to the results of the research, it was seen that teachers' early literacy knowledge was insufficient. In practice, it has been revealed that they have different ideas. They shared their practices, the materials they used, the difficulties they encountered, their expectations from families, problems, solution suggestions and their opinions about the preschool education program. They mentioned many factors that hinder early literacy practices. It turns out that teachers need training and economic support regarding early literacy.