Astronomy Education in Preschool: Foundations of Early Scientific Thinking
Şu kitabın bölümü: Yılmaz, A. & Aydınlı, B. (eds.) 2025. Exploring Scientific Minds in Early Childhood: Environment, Rights, and STEM Integration.

Cihan Gülgün
Kastamonu University
Çağrı Avan
Kastamonu University
Kamil Doğanay
Ministry of National Education

Özet

This section examines the role of astronomy education in the preschool period in establishing the foundations of scientific thinking within a theoretical and pedagogical framework. Astronomy education contributes to the development of scientific literacy by supporting children's curiosity, observation, and inquiry skills at an early age. The study presents a constructivist learning ground based on Piaget's cognitive development, Vygotsky's sociocultural, and Papert's constructivist approaches. In line with these theoretical foundations, astronomy education has been integrated with concrete materials, games, storytelling, drama, and design-oriented activities. The interdisciplinary application of astronomy themes through the STEAM approach supports the development of creativity, aesthetic awareness, and problem-solving skills in children. Within the context of the Turkey Century Education Model (TCEM), astronomy teaching is directly linked to the field of science; pedagogical practices consistent with discovery, observation, production, and value-based learning processes are proposed. The chapter also details observation-based assessment tools, family involvement strategies, and teacher guidance processes. In conclusion, astronomy education in early childhood is defined as an interdisciplinary and holistic learning area that contributes to children's scientific identity and curiosity development.

Kaynakça Gösterimi

Gülgün, C. & Avan, Ç. & Doğanay, K. (2025). Astronomy Education in Preschool: Foundations of Early Scientific Thinking. In: Yılmaz, A. & Aydınlı, B. (eds.), Exploring Scientific Minds in Early Childhood: Environment, Rights, and STEM Integration. Özgür Yayınları. DOI: https://doi.org/10.58830/ozgur.pub1044.c4162

Lisans

Yayın Tarihi

22 December 2025

DOI