Using ITERS-R in assessing ECCE quality environment: a case study at two selected child care centres in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Badzis, Mastura and Adnan, Nun Amirah (2025) Using ITERS-R in assessing ECCE quality environment: a case study at two selected child care centres in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Al-Athfaal: Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini, 8 (1). pp. 99-110. ISSN 2622-5484 E-ISSN 2622-5182

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Abstract

Background: The increasing reliance on non-familial early childhood care in urban Malaysia has raised concerns regarding the quality of infant-toddler learning environments. Although policy developments have taken place, there remains a lack of standardized assessment tools to evaluate environmental quality in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) centres. Aim: This study aims to address this critical gap by evaluating the quality of two childcare centres in Kuala Lumpur using the Infant Toddler Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ITERS-R).Method: This research employed a qualitative case study design, with data gathered through structured observations and semi-structured interviews to assess both structural and process quality aspects. Result: The findings revealed that both centres provided only minimal to moderate levels of quality, with Nursery A achieving a mean score of 3.52 and Nursery B scoring 2.86. Notable strengths included language interactions and spatial arrangements. However, significant shortcomings were identified in hygiene practices, caregiver consistency, and inclusivity. Conclusion: These results underscore the importance of adapting and contextualizing international instruments such as the ITERS-R to align with Malaysia‟s cultural and regulatory frameworks. The study contributes localized insights that can inform quality improvement initiatives in urban ECCE settings throughout the country.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	ECCE;Childcare centre;Quality assessment;ITERS-R;Kuala Lumpur;Malaysia;Infant toddler environment
Subjects:	L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1050.9 Educational psychology L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1140 Preschool education
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Education Kulliyyah of Education > Department of Educational Psychology & Counseling
Depositing User:	Mastura Badzis
Date Deposited:	16 Dec 2025 12:22
Last Modified:	16 Dec 2025 12:22
Queue Number:	2025-12-Q947
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/125872

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