Team collaboration in early childhood intervention services in South Africa : comparing professional and caregiver perspectives
Year: 2016
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Collaboration is a sophisticated activity requiring knowledge, technical competencies, and interpersonal skills. Many professionals lack experience in collaboration and therefore face challenges in forming and sustaining early childhood intervention (ECI) teams. These challenges are further compounded when professionals lack skills in collaborating with caregivers who are integral members of the ECI team. There has been limited research on collaboration within ECI teams, particularly in healthcare settings in resource-limited countries with linguistic and cultural diversity and a historical legacy like South Africa. The purpose of this study was to compare professional and caregiver perspectives on collaboration in ECI teams in South Africa, using a descriptive comparative design. Participants included 34 professionals and 64 caregivers who completed professional or caregiver measures respectively. The results showed that a) there are differences in professional and caregiver perceptions about collaboration in services for young children, b) compared to caregivers, professionals have an enhanced understanding of collaboration in ECI teams, c) collaboration in relation to family- centered practices appear to be undervalued by caregivers in comparison to professionals, and d) mutual respect, communication, commitment, resources, linguistic, cultural, and historical considerations are essential for collaboration in ECI teams. These results highlight the importance of context and gaining professional as well as caregiver perspectives on collaboration in ECI teams.
Author: Thilen Kyarkanaye
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2563587661