The purpose of my graduation thesis is to study active way of learning with exploration (inquiry-based learning; Maxim, 1997), solving problem of a closed type at which child with his own activity discovers and gains new experiences and knowledge with which he develops his metacognitive abilities. This way of learning enables children to independently search for answers to researched questions and gains more lasting, durable knowledge which is gained from his own findings. The role of preschool teacher is to offer them assistance and guidance throughout their research project.
The first, theoretic part of my graduation thesis consists of characteristics of learning during preschool period, active learning, learning with exploration and project work. The second, empirical part consists of presentation of my project, solving problems of a closed type (inquiry-based learning) titled “Honey and bees in human life” and execution with evaluation. During this project children actively researched the known types of honey, where the honey comes from, what would happen if all the bees would disappear, benefits and disadvantages of bees to humans. The research question was raised during the tasting of tea at lunch time. The tea doesn’t contain sugar, how can we change the taste? Based on their opinions we remembered of honey, but where can we get it? Through this question we came to suggestions of desired activities and where we can find more information.
During the execution of the project children came to several self-gained conclusions and sensed how big impact bees have on human life and nature.
Method of active learning, research of a closed type (inquiry-based learning), I tested in preschool childcare institution in Radovljica, where I work as assistant preschool teacher. The research consisted of a group of children aged 3 to 4 years.
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