Examining the use of the Meraklı Minik magazine published by TÜBİTAK in social studies lessons

In today's educational approaches where constructivist methods are adopted, the need for materials that support children's active participation in learning processes is increasing.Contemporary children's magazines are considered important educational tools that contribute not only to entertainment but also to the cognitive, social, and emotional development of children. This thesis aims to demonstrate the usability of Meraklı Minik, a science magazine for children published by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK), as an effective material in social studies education. For this purpose, the magazine was analyzed together with the Social Studies Curriculum prepared by the Board of Education and Discipline (Talim ve Terbiye Kurulu Başkanlığı, 2023), and the study was conducted in seven stages. As a qualitative study, document analysis method was employed, and detailed descriptive analysis techniques were used. Firstly, the magazine was examined in terms of instructional principles and found to support them. It was also analyzed in terms of thinking skills, core values, competencies, and general values, and again found to be supportive. Finally, its compatibility with the learning areas and outcomes of the 4th and 5th grade Social Studies Curriculum published by the Board of Education was investigated. Its potential to be used as an educational material was assessed through comparison, documentation, and evaluation. The findings revealed that Meraklı Minik magazine is in alignment with the curriculum and can serve as an effective educational tool.