| The purpose of this descriptive, inferential study was to test the theory of social learning while exploring Child Development Associate attitudes toward the importance of learning experiences during the CDA Professional Preparation Program training. An anonymous online survey administered to CDA program participants employed quantitative research methodological techniques. CDA program participants identified elements of the CDA training program they found more important as measured by scores on, the Cott Learner Appraisal of Significance Scale (CLASS) (Colt, 2004). Participants also identified elements of the training program based on principles of social learning theory as more important when compared to other elements of the program as measured by scores on the CLASS.; Recruitment of participants was accomplished through Internet-based announcements that linked to the CLASS survey, placed via e-mail to selected Texas early-childhood caregiving sites.; A pilot study was conducted to test the reliability and validity of the CLASS questionnaire, as well as to refine and reduce the 73 original items through factor analytic techniques to an optimal 25--30 item survey used for further research. Factor analysis was also used to identify the CDA relevant themes within the 61 importance items of the survey. These themes were confirmed and used in the final survey. One hundred and sixty-seven individuals participated in the pilot study and an additional 162 participants completed the final survey. The survey included items concerning the credentialing process.; Conclusions based on the results of the study indicated that CDAs ranked the importance factors of learning experiences during the program training in the following order: (1) Mentor Characteristics, (2) Field Advisor Support, (3) Course Attractiveness, (4) Value by Family, (5) Course Location and Delivery, (6) Discussion Opportunity, and (7) Relationship Enhancement.; Recommendations for Child Development Associate instructors, Field Advisors, and the Council for Professional Recognition are offered. |
