Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

Program Name/Specialization

Developmental Psychology

Faculty/School

Faculty of Arts

First Advisor

Eileen Wood

Advisor Role

Supervisor

Second Advisor

Alexandra Gottardo

Advisor Role

Internal Committee Member

Third Advisor

John Schwieter

Advisor Role

Internal Committee Member

Abstract

Parents and teachers play a vital role in fostering early literacy development; however, many require additional training to enhance their understanding of alphabet knowledge and phonological awareness. This study examined the effectiveness of two instructional videos—one on phonological awareness and one on evaluating alphabet books—in increasing teachers’ (n = 35) and parents’ (n = 34) perceptions about these domains and the practical application of information covered in the videos. The 69 participants viewed each video, and results indicated a general decrease in confidence following exposure to these videos, likely reflecting an increased awareness of the complexity of the concepts covered. Both groups were able to distinguish between effective and less effective phonological awareness tasks. However, parents consistently rated the relevant tasks as more effective than teachers did, indicating possible differences in awareness of these practical activities. This also highlighted participants’ ability to apply learned concepts in authentic educational activities. Parents and teachers had few differences when rating alphabet books for their effectiveness both before and after viewing the videos and ratings were relatively stable over time. Both groups aligned relatively well with expert raters suggesting a good understanding of effective design with some challenges rating mid-level and lower books. Both teachers and parents perceived the video content as helpful, though teachers found the videos easier to follow. Findings also suggest that both groups may need further, more intensive instruction. The results indicate that short, targeted instructional videos can improve teacher and parent understanding of early literacy concepts while also highlighting areas for video refinement to enhance clarity.

Convocation Year

2025

Convocation Season

Fall

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