A study of quality management of selected brac pre-schools in Mymensingh region, Bangladesh

Abstract

The study examines the management of selected BRAC pre-schools situated in Netrakona district in Mymensingh region from the perspectives of the teachers, parents and administrators. It is based on the principle that commitment to quality education can influence the practices of quality management. The motivation behind such investigation is that due to the lack of any clear policy for Early Childhood Education (ECE) in Bangladesh, the growth of pre-schools and primary schools has multiplied without following any management model. This study consisted of three research objectives: (i) to explore the factors influencing the quality of educational management and practice of BRAC pre-schools from the perspective of administrators and teachers; (ii) to discover teacher’s role in improving quality management of BRAC pre-schools and (iii) to investigate the parental involvement in improving quality management of BRAC pre-schools. This study employed the qualitative research design using the case study method. Four administrators, three parents and three teachers from BRAC Preschools were selected as the informants. The data were collected through in-depth interview. Quality education at pre-school pre-supposes quality teachers, quality infrastructure, effective teaching learning materials and quality management. The teaching style of BRAC pre-schools was found to be very effective since effective strategies are adopted to conduct the classes using practical materials to make a connection between theoretical knowledge and practical knowledge. The parents in BRAC pre-schools are very active, supportive and co-operative to their child’s studies. They not only provide financial support but also take care of their studies; nutrition etc. to make education more sustainable which help their child in successful learning. Lastly, some barriers are identified by the participants which, if the BRAC pre-schools can overcome, they will be successful in their mission and vision. Finally, this study provided some recommendations for theory and practice and arrived at a 5 point Quality Management Model (QMM) for BRAC Preschools to provide quality Early Childhood Education (ECE) through quality management.