A research on the application of outdoor activities in preschool science education

The aim this study is to examine the effect of applying outdoor in preschool science education on the basic skills and concept levels of preschool students. The study was planned as an action research that included outdoor activities designed by the researcher. 14 outdoor activities were applied in the study. The study group consists of 17 students studying in an independent kindergarten. In order to determine the basic skills and concept development of preschool students, "Basic Skills Test for Preschool Student" and "Boehm Basic Concepts Test-3" were used. The tests were applied as a pre-test before the activities were implemented and as a post-test after the activities were implemented. Researcher diaries were kept during the implementation process of the activities. At the end of the activity practices, student interviews were conducted using interview question developed by the researcher. In line with the data obtained from the research, children do science activities outdoor; it has been determined that the child has a significant increase in basic skill and concept development levels, enjoys outdoor activities, establishes a bond with nature while doing activities and respects living things. It has been observed that the activities carried out by students with active participation ara beneficial to the development of values such as cooperation, responsibility and patience.