Abstract:
The purpose of this research was to study the state and problems of operation on information technology used in the child development centers under local administrative organization. The samples of this research were 32 local administrators, 32 caregivers, and 32 community representatives, total of 96 persons. The research tools were questionnaires, interview, survey, and observation forms. The research results were as follows:
Concerning administration: 1) The policy and planning of information technology used for operation by the local administrators was set out in accordance with the current needs and the status of the child development centers for convenience, rapid, modern, and time saving. 2) Selection of personnel concerned for capabilities and interests. 3) Budget allocation for preparation of facilities, and supplying of materials and equipment were supported by the main organization. 4) Personnels were supported by arranging for taking turn to attend workshops, seminars or conferences.
Concerning teaching and learning activities: 1) Activities providing was based on child development and childs interest, being individualized and organized into small and large groups with appropriate and flexible time management. 2) The role of caregiver included material and equipment selection based on developmental appropriateness and curriculum. Caregivers paid closely attention and encouraged the interaction of adult child and child - child relationships during activities.
Concerning environmental arrangement: 1) Activity area and material arrangement were well allocated for accessibility. 2) Information technology materials and equipments were under regularly check and maintenance.
Concerning cooperation and support from community: 1) Community cooperation and policy planning through budget support in the preparation of material, equipment, building, and staff training. 2) Community participation in planning of learning activities, selection of materials, equipments and guest speakers. 3) Environmental arrangement being supported by community through budget funding, area allocating, and security equipment installation.
Problems found were as follows: 1) Concerning administration: lack of specialists, insufficient budget for organizing facilities, and information technology materials and equipments including high staff workload. 2) Concerning teaching and learning activities: caregiver did not utilize material and equipment in the activities rather than being trained, insuffienciency of information technology material and equipment to be used, and no sharing among children. 3) Concerning environmental arrangement: limitation of space in the centers and lacks of budget for repair and maintenance and 4) concerning cooperation and support from community: insufficient funding for preparation of material and equipment, building, and personnel support; lack of information on standard criteria, including insufficient support from community.