Place arrangements and motivation methods of preschool teachers use in science and nature activities

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine the preferences of preschool teachers using place arrangement as a motivation method during science and nature activities. The sample consists of 23 randomly selected teachers working at pre-schools in Trabzon. The data were collected from semi-structured interviews and classroom observations. According to the data most of the teachers believe that place arrangement in science and nature corners is very fruitful to motivate and challenge students to attend science and nature activities. On the other hand, limited opportunities, such as deficiency of materials, crowded classes with small sizes, prevent teachers to make various instructive activities for pre-school children. © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.