Examination of value orientations of students in early childhood period according to socio-economic level, age and gender variables

Basic purpose of this study is to display the value orientations of students in early childhood period in terms of their socio-economic level, age and gender variables and in accordance with their opinions.The research was conducted at three elementary schools in the province of Aydın in 2008-2009 academic year. Working group consisted of 45 male and 45 female students at the age of 6, 7 and 8. of the 90 students who constituted the working group, higher, medium and lower socio-economic statuses were each represented by 30 students. Interview was used as data collection technique in this study which was designed as qualitative research. Semi-structured interview form developed by the researcher and a personal information form with the purpose of determining the socio-economic status of parents of the students were employed as data collection means of this study. The data obtained through interview form were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods. Content analysis was conducted to qualitative data and ?percentage? calculations were used for digitization of the data.When obtained qualitative data were evaluated, it was found out that students from all age, socio-economic level and gender had some values like being integrated to a world full of beauties and nature, being benevolent, courtesy, obedience, faithfulness, healthiness, richness, successfulness, pleasure, and choosing their own goals. It has also been determined that male and female students at 6 or 7 years of age who have higher socio-economic status had the value ?those who are in the value types of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk love and respect him?; it has also been found out that male and female students at the age of 8 who have higher socio-economic status have the value ?Ataturk?s principles guide our lives?.Keywords: Early Childhood Period, Value Orientation, Moral Development