Views of Teachers and Headteachers about Outdoor Learning in Pre-School Education Institutions in Turkey and England

Abstract

In the study, it is aimed to determine the views and experiences in outdoor learning of preschool teachers and headteachers in preschool institutions in Turkey and England with phenomenological research. The data was collected by interview forms which consisted of open-ended questions. Teachers, and head teachers in preschool institutions were interviewed both in Turkey and England. The study group determined 9 headteachers and 9 teachers from 6 school in Turkey and England. As a result, according to views of headteachers and teachers school gardens, equipment, and spent time outside are insufficient in Turkey unlike in England. It is seen that family participation in outdoor learning is more common in Turkey. However, in Turkey, teachers and headteachers feel more family pressure. These pressures arise from situations such as the safety of their children, the fact that they are sick and their clothes are dirty. The fact that teachers are alone in the classroom without help also makes teachers feel anxious about the safety of children in outdoor learning activities. Teachers in both countries emphasized the positive effects of outdoor learning in terms of learning, children and teachers. On the other hand, teachers and headteachers in Turkey also mentioned the negative effects of outdoor learning in the context of child, teacher and program. It is seen that the subject of outdoor learning is not sufficiently included in vocational education and in-service trainings in both countries. Physical facilities can be developed in Turkey. Parent’s education, teacher assistant, and economic supports will be effective in overcoming the obstacles with outdoor learning in Turkey. In both countries, teacher training programs should more include outdoor learning topics and teachers should be supported with in-service training.