The diploma thesis entitled Vegetable garden presents project work with explorative learning approach. Explorative learning is one of the basic learning principles in the preschool period and is classified as an active learning method that enables children to practically participate in activities and learn through actual experiences. The approach encourages children to be active, independent, teaches them to participate, plan, search, organize and document information. It enables them to design, discover, acquire long-term knowledge and gain new experiences through own activity.
In the theoretical part, I present characteristics or importance of learning and play in the preschool period, effects and advantages of active learning, explorative learning and project work in kindergarten. I also describe the role of a teacher and importance of introducing natural sciences and ecological values to kindergarten children. The empirical part of the diploma thesis includes a presentation of learning approach under the principles of closed exploration in a form of project work, the goal of which was to examine advantages and shortcomings of active explorative learning, role of a teacher, effect on motivation, curiosity, children’s participation, and their response to a new form of learning approach.
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