AVAILABILITY AND UTILIZATION OF EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CURRICULUM AMONG PUBLIC EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRES IN ENUGU EDUCATION ZONE.

This study examined the availability and utilization of educational resources in implementing the Early Childhood Education (ECE) curriculum in public early childhood centers in Enugu Education Zone. A descriptive survey research design was employed, with a sample of 1,604 respondents, including 143 headteachers and 1,461 teachers, selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and a checklist, ensuring validity through expert reviews and reliability via a Cronbach alpha coefficient of 0.76. Findings revealed that while some resources, such as classrooms and textbooks, were moderately available, critical learning materials like art supplies, educational games, and visual aids were insufficient. Additionally, teachers’ utilization of available resources was found to be low. Hypothesis testing using independent sample t-tests showed no significant difference between male and female teachers' responses on resource availability and utilization. The study concludes that inadequate educational resources hinder the effective implementation of the ECE curriculum. It recommends increased funding, improved resource allocation, and teacher training to enhance curriculum delivery. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders in optimizing early childhood education in Nigeria.