Role Play Method for Children Social Skills: Knowledge, Practice, Skill and Challenges of Teachers

Kaedah Main Peranan Dalam Kemahiran Sosial Kanak-Kanak: Pengetahuan, Amalan, Kemahiran Dan Cabaran Guru

Abstract

This research was to investigate teachers’ knowledge, practice and challenges when implementing role play to support social skills for 4-year-old children in kindergarten setting. A total of three kindergarten teachers and six children participated in this research. It was conducted at a kindergarten located in Dungun, Terengganu. The research instruments used in this study are interviews and checklists. Teachers acknowledge the use of role play method can support children’s social skills in terms of communication, friendship and the skill of sharing equipment with friends during activities. The children were observed during role playing with friends. This research shows there was an increased frequency of communication and helping friends while playing. It also indicates that children were more prone to communicate with teachers while role playing showing that the adult’s role is important in implementing the role-play method to support social skills and values in children. However, this research also revealed there were challenges faced by the teachers during the implementation of role-play for children which are not having enough time and limited finances to do role play in kindergarten.