Assignment Task: Changing Your Practice Based on Psychological Research and Theory

Sure, let`s dive into this assignment together! Here`s a structured approach to address each section effectively:

Section A: Psychological Reflection

(i) Motivation: Reflect on Motivation Theory in the context of your practice with preschool-aged children. Consider if and how children`s psychological needs are met, drawing from relevant theories such as self-determination theory or achievement goal theory. Provide specific examples and suggest improvements based on your analysis and psychological theory.

Section B: Psychological Reflection & Analysis

(ii) Relationships: Critically examine your relationships with the children, especially those who presented difficult behavior. Apply theories like Pianta`s Model or attachment theory to analyze your interactions. Offer suggestions for improvement based on psychological theory, considering concepts like attunement or secure base.

Section C: Psychological Reflection & Analysis

(iii) Scaffolding Positive Behavior – Structure: Analyze the structure within the classroom environment and its influence on children`s behavior. Consider theories like Vygotsky`s scaffolding theory. Propose improvements in practice to enhance positive behavior based on psychological theory.

Section D: Psychological Reflection & Analysis

(iv) Scaffolding Positive Behavior – Boundaries, Expectations: Examine how boundaries/rules and contingency systems influence behavior. Analyze the effectiveness of rules, consequences, and reinforcement strategies using operant conditioning principles. Justify your analysis with psychological theory and suggest improvements accordingly.

Section E: Psychological Reflection & Analysis

(v) Teaching Social & Emotional Skills: Evaluate your promotion of peer friendships and strategies for behavioral self-regulation. Consider social learning theory or emotional intelligence theories. Provide suggestions for improvement grounded in psychological theory.

Section F: Responding To Behavioral Challenges

(vi) Responding to Behavioral Challenges: Assess the contingency system used and its alignment with psychological principles. Reflect on a specific behavioral challenge you encountered, analyze your response using relevant theory (e.g., behaviorism or cognitive-behavioral theory), and identify lessons learned. Offer suggestions for future responses informed by psychological theory.

Remember to integrate your reflections, analysis, and suggestions cohesively, supported by psychological research and theory. Each section should demonstrate a deep understanding of relevant concepts and their practical application in your work with preschool-aged children. Good luck!