How Can Classroom Assistants be Utilised More Effectively to Improve Phonological Awareness - Research Paper Example

While the frameworks explicated in the ‘Study Guide, pp. 10-26’ all enthuse for the enhancement of teaching practices with the end in view of addressing the barriers to literacy, particularly reading difficulties, there had been considerable debate on the methodical aspect. One particular area of disagreement among policymakers and educators alike is whether synthetic phonics and analytic phonics should be the standard approach.Sentiments have also been generally divided on the role of classroom assistants.

Some sectors believe that given an appropriate training, classroom assistants can share noteworthy contributions towards the improvement of the reading skill of young students. On the other hand, there are also factions like the National Union of Teachers in England who resent the growing role of classroom assistants in schools.As a practitioner, I feel it incumbent upon myself to take part in the academe in its efforts to facilitate curbing of the obstacles to literacy development. I have always wanted to explore about some ways by which my school in County Donegal, Republic of Ireland can devise potent measures in attending to the reading difficulties of our students, in my plan for professional development.

An earlier needs analysis also pointed towards an investigation which will pave the way towards improved reading competencies among students in our country school.This study will, therefore, venture to assess how classroom assistants can be utilized more effectively to improve phonological awareness in infant classrooms through the use of the Jolly Phonics Programme.