Abstract
OUTDOOR PLAYGROUNDS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF TEACHERS AND SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS
The aim of this study is to investigate the outdoor playgrounds in preschool education institutions. For this purpose, school outdoor playgrounds (school playground) were examined based on the opinions of preschool teachers and school administrators about playgrounds in their schools. The study, which was designed in the qualitative method in the case study design, was conducted in kindergartens of the Ministry of National Education in the city center of Muş. The study group consisted of 30 preschool teachers and 24 preschool teachers and 6 school administrators. Research data were obtained through semi-structured interviews. In addition, school outdoor photographs and research data were supported. The data obtained were subjected to content analysis. As a result of the research; regarding the importance of outdoor playgrounds for children; teachers and school administrators agree that they support the development of children. School gardens are suitable for children; the high percentage of teachers think that school gardens are not sufficient for children and the reasons for this inadequacy; the lack of playgrounds, the lack of safe spaces and the lack of green spaces. Unlike the teachers, it was found out that school administrators think that the outdoor playgrounds are sufficient for children. Regarding how they dream of a schoolyard, the teachers dreamed of a school garden consisting of green spaces, where there are areas of various kinds of play, providing conditions suitable for natural life; school administrators; it is seen that they dream of a reliable and fun garden consisting of green areas.
Keywords
Playgrounds, kindergarten, playground, preschool teachers, school administrator.