Investigation of forest school concept by forest school teachers’ viewpoints

Abstract

The study aims to reveal the opinions of teachers working in forest schools about education and students in forest schools. To this end, the study group was constructed with the participation of 5 teachers working in forest schools. The study employed a case study design, one of the qualitative research methods. The data collection tool of the study is an interview form consisted of 7 questions. The collected data were subjected to content analysis based on the case study design. In order to ensure the credibility of the study, the data were reported as they were and supported with direct quotations. As a result of the study, it was found that the teachers considered the forest school within the natural environment and the process of children’s self-awareness. The general view attained is that the forest school presents a comprehensive learning environment, directs students to research, discovering and learning by doing, always keeps the sense of curiosity alive, presents a unique learning environment and that the students educated here as individuals who have self-confidence, are inquisitive, creative, solution-oriented, learning by doing and with a developed sense of responsibility. In light of these findings, it is thought that it is worth emphasizing the importance of studies conducted with different perspectives and that the forest school provides benefits for children in all the learning areas; therefore, it is worth researching.