An action research on value teaching with oral history

The aim of this research is to reveal the contributions of value teaching with the oral history method in social studies courses to 7th-grade students. For this purpose, collaborative action research, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the research. The study group of the research consists of 20 students, 10 girls, and 10 boys, studying in the 7th grade, their parents, and social studies teachers. The study group was selected according to criterion sampling, one of the purposive sampling methods. Within this scope, the student's level being at the 7th grade level, the equal number of girls and boys, school conditions, and teacher cooperation were determined as criteria. As a data collection tool in the field; preliminary information evaluation form, post-knowledge evaluation form, researcher's diary, unstructured observation, student oral history interview form, parent interview form, teacher interview form, student interview form, interview documents made by students with their families, verbal prepared by students history materials and study evaluation form were used. The data obtained from this information were evaluated by content analysis. As a result of the research, it was seen that the students, who had no idea about oral history before, defined this method correctly after the case, and they recognized the oral history method and the purpose of use of the method. Based on the answers they gave to the preliminary information evaluation form and the final information evaluation form, it was determined that they learned four basic values particularized by the researcher. Therefore, it has been concluded that the use of oral history in the social studies course provides manifold contributions to the students, including family, research, communication skills, using evidence and other contributions. With the oral history study, it was observed that the students perceived the change and continuity regarding the values of giving importance to family unity, solidarity, respect and responsibility. Notwithstanding, it was stated that the students expressed the four basic values with concepts and example situations in the oral history materials they prepared. It was concluded that the parents liked the work and remembered the past in their thoughts on the oral history study. It has been observed that they have gained experiences such as comparing the past and present, telling the past, and sharing their childhood memories. It has been determined that they made some suggestions such as periodic repetition of the study, practice at different levels, interviewing with older family members, and at the same time, some problems were encountered in the oral history practice process, originating from the source persons, students and material.