Needs Analysis for the Development of E-Aishi: An Interactive Module on Professional Quality and Character Building for Preschool Teachers

Abstract

This study evaluates the necessity of developing an interactive professional quality module, e-AISHI, for character building among preschool teachers. Utilizing the Design and Development Research (DDR) approach, this article focuses on Phase 1 (Needs Analysis) involving 350 preschool teachers. Data were collected using a questionnaire developed based on the Malaysian Teacher Standard 2.0 (SGM 2.0) and analyzed descriptively using SPSS Version 27. The findings indicate an overwhelmingly high demand for the module, with mean scores exceeding 4.50 across personal, professional, and social domains. Notably, the highest necessity was recorded for professional communication (mean=4.76), followed by strategies to reduce burnout and anxiety in managing students with special needs (OKU). The results reflect the practical challenges and competency gaps faced by the current generation of teachers (Gen-X and Millennials), who possess high digital literacy but require structured emotional and professional support. This study acknowledges the limitations of self-reported data and suggests future performance-based assessments. Ultimately, the e-AISHI module is justified as an urgent digital intervention to bridge the gap between professional demands and teachers' emotional well-being, aligning with national aspirations for teacher excellence.