The Preschools in Marawi City: Status, Problems and Prospects

Abstract

This study, conducted during the 2010-2011 school year, explores the status, issues, and potential improvements of preschools in Marawi City. Employing a descriptive survey method, the research addresses several key aspects, including teacher, parent, and pupil profiles; preschool facilities; teacher practices; parenting approaches; encountered problems; and reading comprehension performance.The study encompasses twenty-nine preschools in MSU and Marawi City, with a sample size consisting of ninety-seven teachers, one hundred parents, and two hundred eighty-four pupils. A survey questionnaire, structured by the researcher, covers diverse categories such as teacher and parent profiles, preschool status, classroom practices, upbringing methods, encountered problems, reading comprehension performance, and prospects.Statistical tools like frequency distribution, percentage distribution, weighted mean, and the 5-point Likert scale were used for data analysis. Key findings include: a majority of teachers are female, aged 26-30, with a college degree and training in Early Childhood Education; parents are predominantly government-employed, aged 25-30, with 1-3 children; pupils are mostly 6-7 years old, Muslim, and in their senior level; preschool facilities are generally adequate, with classrooms rated moderately adequate; effective teacher practices contrast with moderately effective parenting approaches; serious problems are reported by teachers; and reading comprehension performance varies, with a need for enhanced social learning.Recommendations arising from the study include a preference for preschool teachers with a degree in Early Childhood Education, supplemented by ongoing training; emphasis on English and Filipino as instructional mediums; improved parent-teacher conferences; expanded preschool resources; careful planning and implementation of teacher practices; focus on developing reading skills; fostering rich social learning; and suggesting follow-up studies addressing specific concerns from teachers, pupils, and parents. In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the current state of preschool education in Marawi City and offers practical recommendations to enhance the overall quality of early childhood education in the locality.