Using Drama in School Development

Abstract

The aim of this project is; by supporting the drama knowledge of preschool and primary school administrators, to widen the field of application in schools based on administrator opinions. Also, as a result of the findings derived from the project, with the drama education carried out with administrators, suggestions were made so that contributions could be made towards the development and the betterment of the quality of schools. In line with this aim, a drama activity was carried out with 9 volunteer administrators from different districts in historically important places; the Yigitler Bastion Park, the Arabahmet neighborhood which hosts the old Cypriot houses and the Dervish Pasha Residence which elaborates on the country's values. During the activity process, symbols, doors, a developed school design, objects associated with administration, a lute and materials from nature were utilized, and together with role-play, still image, game, improvisation, excursion-observation and group work various drama methods were used in enriched life experience processes within the scope of the theme. A pre-testing was conducted prior to the study, and a post-testing was conducted afterwards. Letter writing in role, writing positive messages to the World and the students; as well as sharing, revising and assessment studies with the target group were carried out. Participants emphasized, the importance of focusing on problems and their solutions together with administrators; the amazing effects drama and its application could have on themselves, the school, its teachers and the students; the effectiveness of applying different methods; the applicability of drama in school development; the importance of creativity development; the possible positive messages which could be given to the World; the importance such activities added to our lives and its effectiveness in creating an awareness of differences. It is believed that, with the activities of the study which would be applied using the drama method; contribution would be made to the education process, not only to the education administrators, but through them, to teachers, to students, parents and others would also be reached, in this way contribution would be made not only to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) education system, but field of education administration also.