Preliminary findings: Early childhood student teachers' perception of their confidence and competence

The purpose of this pilot study was to examine early childhood student teachers' perceptions of their confidence and competence in the subject areas of the New Zealand Curriculum Framework (NZCF). The preliminary findings are presented from an analysis of questionnaires, testing and focus group interviews. Study design and methods of collecting data are detailed. The students indicated their own perceptions of their confidence and competence in various subject areas and three influences bcame apparent from their responses. Teacher educators may find these preliminary results informative and instructive for the design of preservice early childhood education programmes. © 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.