TEACHERS’ PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL USE OF INFORMAL LEARNING INSTITUTIONS: FOCUS ON A BOTANIC GARDEN

Abstract

The main purpose of this study is to explore the reasons why teachers do personal visits and take their students to informal science learning institutions, with a focus on botanic gardens. A questionnaire developed by the researchers was used to collect data from 149 Turkish elementary school teachers. The findings indicate that all of the following nine factors (Kisiel, 2005; 2006; Falk and Dierking; 2000; Falk, Moussouri & Coulson, 1998; Michie, 1998) to connect with the classroom curriculum, to provide students with a general learning experience and a new experience, to encourage students in lifelong learning, to enhance students’ interest and motivation, to provide a change in setting or routine, to provide enjoyment, to meet school expectations, to contribute to the socialization of students, and to enjoy the physical setting; were influential. Also, a significant relationship was found between teachers’ personal interest and the field trip experiences of their students.