Investigating the impact of out-of-school learning environments on social skills of 60–72-month-old children

Kölemen E. B., TEMEL Z. F.

Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education, 2025 (ESCI) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1007/s42322-025-00199-3
  • Dergi Adı: Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Early Childhood Education in Turkey, Out-of-School Learning, Outdoors, Social Skills
  • Gazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

This study examined the impact of activities on the social skills of pre-schoolers outside of the classroom settings. The study used an embedded design, which is a mixed design combining quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative method used a quasi-experimental design, including pre-test, post-test, follow-up test, and control groups. Meanwhile, the qualitative method was based on case studies through observation. The researchers developed measurement tools such as “Social Skills Scale (SSS),” “observation form”, and “social skills interview form created with stories” for both groups. The study group consisted of 22 children aged 60–72 months, with 11 in the experimental group and 11 in the control group. The experimental group participated in the Out of School Education Program (OSEP), developed and designed by the researchers, twice a week for 8 weeks, while the control group continued with their regular program. The study found that outdoor activities had a positive impact on children's social skills, and the number of permanent social skills increased over time.