Improving a playcentre science programme through action research : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the degree of Master of Educational Administration at Massey University

Abstract

This is a study of the process of improvement of a science programme provided in a playcentre. In a project using action research methodology with one third of the adults staffing the playcentre, during one term, the science programme in the centre was considerably improved, on measures of dialogues with the children, and of planning activities specifically for science. The staff members, mothers in the playcentre, reported increased confidence in talking with children about science topics, and a significant change in their interaction patterns both with their own families and with other children in the playcentre science programme. The action research methodology was found to be a particularly helpful one in supporting the group of parents in improving their centre's science programme.