Bridging Horizon: The Experiences of Kindergarten Teachers in Handling Self-Regulated Learners
ANNA MAE T. LLEGO MAE T. LLEGO
Paper Contents
Abstract
Abstract The study explores the experiences of kindergarten teachers in managing and supporting self-regulated learnersyoung children who can independently control their emotions, behaviors, and learning processes. "Bridging Horizon" refers to how teachers connect their teaching strategies with the developmental needs of these learners, aiming to foster autonomy while maintaining guidance and structure. The research highlights challenges teachers face, such as balancing freedom and discipline, adapting teaching methods, and recognizing individual learning styles. It also emphasizes the importance of teacher training, classroom environment, and emotional support in nurturing self-regulation among young children.The study provides insight into how kindergarten teachers navigate the evolving role of educator as a guide and mentor for self-regulated learners. It emphasizes the need for balance between structure and freedom, and highlights how teachers "bridge the horizon" by preparing young learners for more autonomous learning while maintaining a supportive, emotionally responsive classroom.Explores how early childhood educators manage and support young learners who demonstrate the ability to control their own emotions, behaviors, and learning processes. These self-regulated learners exhibit independence, motivation, and persistence, which requires teachers to shift from traditional directive approaches to more flexible, learner-centered strategies. Teachers often employ inquiry-based learning, offer choices, and promote reflective thinking to nurture these skills. However, they also face challenges, such as balancing autonomy with classroom structure, managing diverse learner needs, and aligning their methods with curriculum requirements. Emotional and social support plays a significant role, as teachers must build trust, model self-regulation, and foster a nurturing environment. Professional development, collaboration with peers, and access to appropriate learning tools are identified as key supports in this process. Overall, the study highlights that teaching self-regulated learners involves a dynamic, responsive approach where educators bridge the gap between guiding young children and empowering them to take ownership of their learning journey.Keywords:learner-centered strategies, inquiry-based learning, student autonomy, reflective thinking, self-regulated learning, classroom management, curriculum alignment, emotional support, social support, teacher-student trust, professional development, peer collaboration, instructional tools, early childhood education, empowerment, responsive teaching, ownership of learning.
Copyright
Copyright © 2025 ANNA MAE T. LLEGO. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.