Perspectives of teachers, guides, and parents as stakeholders in out-of-school learning environments

Abstract

In recent years, out-of-school learning has gained significance in Turkiye and has been increasingly integrated into education programs and especially in preschool programs. This research aims to explore the perspectives of preschool teachers, guides, and parents on out-of-school learning environments. Within the scope of this qualitative research, semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with five teachers, five guides, and five parents. The data collected through the interviews were analyzed using content analysis technique. According to the results, all stakeholders agree that out-of-school learning environments contribute to the holistic development of children. Additionally, the findings suggest that these benefits motivate teachers and parents to organize out-of-school learning activities. Yet, the stakeholders do not have a sufficient understanding of how they could work collectively and more effectively toward these motivations. This indicates that the collaboration of all stakeholders must be strengthened and stakeholders must be informed on how they can act together.