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0EURASIAN JOURNAL OF ACADEMIC RESEARCH
Innovative Academy Research Support Center UIF = 8.1 | SJIF = 7.899 www.in-academy.uz
THE USE OF THE ORAL METHOD IN INTRODUCING CHILDREN TO NATURE IN PRESCHOOL EDUCATIONAL
ORGANIZATIONS Mamirova Zamira Urakboyevna
GSU teacher https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11178224
ARTICLE INFO
ABSTRACT
Preschool education plays a pivotal role in shaping children's attitudes and understanding of the natural world. In recent years, there has been growing interest in utilizing innovative methods to introduce young children to nature and facilitate their environmental awareness. This article explores the use of the oral method as an effective approach in preschool educational organizations to foster children's connection with nature. It examines the theoretical foundations of the oral method, its benefits, and practical applications in promoting nature-based learning experiences. Furthermore, the article discusses the role of educators, the challenges, and potential future directions for incorporating the oral method into early childhood education to enhance children's environmental consciousness.
Received: 04th May 2024 Accepted: 10th May 2024 Online: 11th May 2024 KEYWORDS Oral method, preschool education, children, nature, environmental awareness, storytelling, verbal
communication, constructivist theories, benefits, practical applications, educators,
challenges, future directions, environmental consciousness, early childhood education, nature-based learning,
professional development, interdisciplinary collaboration, play-based learning, outdoor education, immersive
experiences.
1. Introduction:
Preschool education plays a crucial role in shaping children's cognitive, social, and emotional development. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on environmental education as a means to instill environmental awareness and sustainability values in young learners. Among the various approaches to environmental education, the oral method has emerged as a promising tool for engaging children in nature-based learning experiences. This article investigates the potential of the oral method in preschool educational organizations to enhance children's connection with nature and foster environmental awareness.
2. Theoretical Foundations of the Oral Method:
The oral method draws upon constructivist theories of learning, emphasizing the active participation of children in the learning process. It recognizes the power of storytelling and
EURASIAN JOURNAL OF ACADEMIC RESEARCH
Innovative Academy Research Support Center UIF = 8.1 | SJIF = 7.899 www.in-academy.uz
oral communication in capturing children's imagination, promoting cognitive engagement, and facilitating meaning-making. By using narratives, anecdotes, and descriptive language, educators can create immersive experiences that stimulate children's curiosity and emotional connection with the natural world.
3. Benefits of the Oral Method in Nature Education:
The oral method offers several benefits in introducing children to nature in preschool educational organizations. Firstly, storytelling encourages children to use their imagination and develop a sense of wonder and awe for the natural world. It enhances their observation skills, vocabulary development, and ability to make connections between different aspects of the environment. Secondly, oral communication promotes social interaction, collaboration, and empathy among children, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the environment. Lastly, the oral method provides a flexible and adaptable approach that can be tailored to accommodate diverse learning styles and individual interests.
4. Practical Applications of the Oral Method in Nature Education:
Educators in preschool educational organizations can employ various techniques and activities to incorporate the oral method into nature education. Storytelling sessions, nature walks with guided narratives, role-playing, and group discussions are effective ways to engage children in meaningful interactions with the natural environment. Integrating multimedia resources, such as audio recordings, visual aids, and interactive technology, can further enhance the effectiveness of the oral method and create immersive nature-based experiences.
5. Evaluation and Assessment:
To assess the effectiveness of the oral method in nature education, a variety of evaluation methods can be used. Observations of children's engagement, participation, and interactions during storytelling sessions, nature walks, and group discussions can provide valuable insights into their learning experiences. Educators can also collect children's reflections, drawings, or written responses to assess their understanding of environmental concepts and their emotional connection with nature. Additionally, formative assessments, such as quizzes or group projects, can be designed to gauge children's knowledge retention and application of learned concepts.
6. Challenges and Considerations:
While the oral method offers numerous benefits, there are some challenges and considerations to keep in mind. Language barriers and individual differences in language proficiency may pose challenges for children from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Educators should strive to create an inclusive environment and provide additional support for children who require it. Furthermore, the oral method relies heavily on the skills and expertise of educators in delivering engaging and captivating narratives. Continuous professional development and training can help educators refine their storytelling and communication techniques to maximize the impact of the oral method.
7. Collaboration and Community Engagement:
Engaging parents, families, and the broader community is essential to reinforce the impact of the oral method in nature education. Educators can involve parents in storytelling activities, invite them to share their own nature experiences, or organize community events
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