Influence of Teachers’ Factors and Availability of Learning Facilities on Quality Service Delivery in Early Childhood Education in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper discusses how the factors of teachers and availability of learning facilities affect the quality service provision in the Early Childhood Education (ECE). It is generally accepted that early childhood education is a key period in the life of children, the prerequisite of further education and socialization. In spite of this appreciation, provision of quality ECE in Nigeria still remains an issue especially in matters pertaining to teacher-related aspects and accessibility of learning facilities. The paper discusses the qualification of teachers, teaching experience, training and motivation of teachers and the access to learning facilities including classrooms, instructional materials and learning resources and how they affect service delivery in ECE centers. The paper shows that there is a need of comprehensive interventions in which teacher capacity-building and investment in infrastructure are taken seriously. The paper also provides a conclusion, which includes sustained professional development programs, enhancing teachers’ motivation, implementing policies, as well as investing more government and community investment in ECE infrastructure. These interventions play a crucial role in terms of equitable access to quality early childhood education as well as quality service delivery.