Consequences of staff composition in Norwegian kindergarten

Abstract

The main question in this study is related to how the composition and formal competence of staff can affect the division of labor in Norwegian kindergarten. The article discusses the distribution of activities between kindergarten teachers and assistants, and what characterizes the two groups’ responsibilities at work. The study is based on a survey representing kindergartens from all over Norway, and is part of a national research project[1]. Division of labor is weak. The findings are discussed using a frame factor theoretical approach (Dahllöf 1967, Lundgren 1981). It is argued that several factors affect how staff utilize the scope of action in kindergarten.

[1] The ”MAFAL”-project. “Mastering the role as kindergarten teacher in a field dominated by laymen.” Cooperation between researchers at Volda University College and Oslo and Akershus University College. Supported by the Norwegian Council of Research