My research simulation is asking the question if requiring more education reduces staff in turnover in early childcare settings. I chose this topic because in the centers I have worked at which included two different Head Start agencies and a private daycare, I saw frequent staff turnover. This created stress in the center as staff members had to pick up the extra responsibilities, move between classrooms to maintain ratios at all times, and have to help train new employees. It was negative for the children to have different caretakers. It also was bad for the center because it takes time to get new employees trained in the proper procedures and learn how the center worked. Many of the people who did not stay very long were those who had none or very little education in early childhood. I believe that by requiring more education, centers will be hiring staff members who are more committed to the early childhood field and less likely to leave for other positions.
I learned a lot of information in the readings this week, though reading the book did intimidate me a little as I tried to understand the research process. I really struggled with understanding how you process and analyze the data. Did anyone else struggle with this area? Was there anything you have read that helps to better explain this process?
The discussion this week gave me a lot of new insight into how to review a source. I was amazed at the number of websites that I would have thought would be good, did not meet the criteria.
Does anyone have any insights into staff turnover that they have experienced in their centers and things that would be good to keep in mind as I continue through with the research simulation?
I work in Head Start and we have experienced a high turnover of teachers at the agency where I work. I have found that it was not so much the education of the teachers, but rather the stress of the paperwork, and the low pay.
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteThe topic you choose is great. I work in a back-up center and I often get to see first-hand how stressed children can get being taken away from their regular routine and going to a new daycare with people they do not know. Because my center is a back-up center we are sometimes understaff and this also cause stressors to both staff members and the children. What types of resources did you review to answer your questions? I think these resources will help me professionally and may eliminate some stressors I face at work.
Jennie,
ReplyDeleteThe topic of staff turnover is such a major issue in the field. I personally have found it challenging to narrow down a specific cause for turnover, as I've experienced turn over due to a whole slew of reasons (i.e. finances, education, philosophy, etc.). Do you predict that you will find turnovers to be more likely when increased education is required?