The examination of social studies teacher candidates perspectives on cultural heritage and virtual museums

This study aimed to examine the perspectives of social studies teacher candidates regarding cultural heritage and virtual museums, which are an integral part of the cultural and heritage learning domain in the social studies curriculum. The research was conducted using a qualitative research method, specifically a case study design. A semi structured interview form, prepared by the researcher, was utilized as the data collection tool. The study took place during the 2022-2023 academic year at a state university, involving second, third and fourth year students in the Department of Social Studies Education. The participants were selected through purposive sampling, specifically criteria sampling considering the requirement that the teacher candidates had taken courses in Social Anthropology and History of Civilization. Descriptive analysis technique was employed for data analysis. The teacher candidates were asked to engage in a virtual tour of the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara, using the QR code provided in the interview form. Subsequently, they were expected to answer the questions in the interview form based on their impressions from the virtual tour. The findings of the study revealed the significant role of virtual museums in concretizing topics and fostering the appreciation of cultural heritage with in the context of social studies education. Based on the results obtained from the research, various recommendations were proposed of teacher candidates regarding virtual museums. Keywords: Social Studies, Museum Education, Cultural Heritage, Virtual Museum.