An evaluation of the implementation of a grade two language arts program

• Main Author: Priddle, Simeon J.
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Memorial University of Newfoundland 1992
• Subjects: Newfoundland
• Online Access: https://research.library.mun.ca/5088/; https://research.library.mun.ca/5088/1/Priddle_SimeonJ.pdf; https://research.library.mun.ca/5088/3/Priddle_SimeonJ.pdf

This study examined the implementation of the Nelson Networks Language Arts Program, a whole language approach to the teaching of language arts. Specifically, the study investigated the relationship of health, teacher background and reflective teaching to quality of teaching life and satisfaction with career choice. Further, the relationship between the preceding variables and teachers' perceptions of the implementation process used with the Nelson Networks and the management aspects of the program was investigated. -- The data for this study was obtained from the Curriculum Change Survey. Only the data pertaining to the aforementioned variables was used. This data was collected from a sample of grade two teachers in Newfoundland schools during the 1989-90 school year. Teachers completed a four point scale survey at two points in the school year. Only the data from the first survey was addressed. -- Analysis consisted of principal components analysis of the instrument items, regression analysis, path analysis and direct least squares. On the basis of this analysis it was concluded that teacher health was a good indicator of teacher satisfaction with career choice. Reflective teachers were more likely to be satisfied with career choice, more positive toward implementation of new curriculum and more positive towards the management aspects of new curriculum. -- Teachers who were more satisfied with their career choice responded more negatively to the implementation and management aspects of the new program. Satisfaction with career choice and quality of teaching life were highly related, as were teachers' perceptions of the implementation process and management aspects of the new curriculum.