Examination of Preschool Citizenship Education in Terms of Program and Teachers' Views

Abstract

In this study, it was aimed to determine the opinions of preschool teachers about citizenship education and to make evaluations for citizenship education in line with the findings. For this purpose, the research was shaped by a case study, one of the qualitative research methods. In determining the sample, the 'convenience sampling' technique, which is one of the 'purposive sampling' methods, was used. In this study, a semi-structured interview form prepared by the researcher was used. The semi-structured interview form prepared within the scope of the research was applied to 25 preschool teachers working in pre-school education institutions. The analysis of the data obtained in the research was evaluated with content analysis. Findings related to the research are presented in 8 main themes and categories. As a result of the research; It is seen that the knowledge of pre-school teachers about the concept of citizenship education is sufficient. It was stated that social participation, respect, patriotism, love, belonging, sensitivity, cooperation, responsibility, empathy, critical thinking, tolerance, helpfulness skills and values should be given within the scope of citizenship education in the preschool period. Teachers stated that the acquisitions in the pre-school education program are not fully sufficient in terms of citizenship education, but they can be improved because it is a flexible program. It has been concluded that if appropriate activities for citizenship education are planned, taking into account the age levels of children in the pre-school period, children's perspectives on the concept of citizenship can be improved. The practices most recommended by teachers for citizenship education were "field trips". The teachers stated that the concepts related to citizenship education should be embodied with activities because the age groups of children in the pre-school period are small. 44% of pre-school teachers find the readiness of preschool children sufficient in terms of citizenship education. In addition, it has been determined that there are 1 acquisitions in the field of cognitive development related to citizenship education and 8 acquisitions in the field of social and emotional development in the preschool education program