INTERNATIONAL STUDIES ON LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS

PREFACE

In recent years, there have been significant developments in education and training, driven by the rapid advancement of technology and changing social needs. The rise of innovative approaches has created new opportunities for students worldwide, with digital transformation playing a particularly important role in reshaping education. From the use of digital tools to the adoption of online platforms and personalized learning, education is undergoing a profound paradigm shift. Researchers examining the main trends and developments in this field aim to contribute to the international discourse with their in-depth studies.

The concept of the learning environment encompasses the various physical spaces, settings, and platforms where students engage in learning. Students can learn at school, in the cafeteria, at home, outdoors, or in any digital environment, which serves as an alternative to the traditional classroom. Thus, the learning environment is a broad and multifaceted concept. Today, studies on learning environments—ranging from physical, social, and emotional conditions to student-centered technological and digital learning environments—are gaining attention. In this century, where technology is at its peak and driving rapid changes in every field, these advancements, despite their positive contributions, may hinder students’ development of critical and creative thinking skills. As a result, idealistic researchers in the field are focusing on appropriate methods, strategies, and techniques that encourage multidimensional thinking in children.

This book chapter, “International Studies on Learning Environments,” focuses on important topics that will contribute to the field. It covers a wide range of subjects, including computer games, the etymology and history of games, textbooks, argumentation-based games, and forest schools. These academic perspectives provide valuable research for academics, students, and teachers working in this field. However, it is important to note that, at times, the passion for computer games may outweigh students’ commitment to schoolwork. Games, which children and young people spend considerable time playing, can sometimes lead to addictive behaviors. While technological environments often support students in areas such as research, problem-solving, and critical thinking, they can also negatively affect children when used uncontrollably or unconsciously. Nevertheless, when used for the right purposes, games play an important role in children’s social, cognitive, and sociocultural development. They satisfy children’s curiosity, help develop self-expression skills, improve problem-solving abilities, and enhance hand-eye coordination, especially in the context of education.

Textbooks and digital textbooks (e-textbooks, e-texts, etc.) serve as another important learning environment. These resources are considered comfort zones for both students and teachers due to their ease of access and practicality. In addition to structuring and developing learning, guiding self-directed learning, and contributing to assessment and evaluation, textbooks also transmit values and ideas. By normalizing dominant worldviews through their content, textbooks can exert a subtle form of social control. Textbooks often present reading materials that reflect the social order, rather than universal topics or definitions. For instance, they typically depict women in traditional roles as mothers and wives, while men are portrayed as workers who produce and hold status.

Argumentation plays a crucial role in the effective realization of education and training. Researchers are developing new methods to enable students to make informed comments and establish connections between different pieces of knowledge from an early age. One such method is the “predict-observe-explain” (POE) approach, which is commonly used in science education. This method emphasizes the importance of critically examining claims, collecting relevant data, and presenting that data as evidence. POE activities have proven to be effective in increasing academic achievement and fostering problem-solving skills.

Another innovative learning environment that has gained attention is the concept of forest schools. In this model, which is rooted in long-term, play-based, active, and experiential learning, students engage in discovery through play in a natural environment. This approach, which is primarily used during the preschool years, helps improve students’ social, emotional, and physical skills. The application of this method at later educational stages is equally important for the development of children’s self-esteem and confidence.

As we can see, the primary goal of these studies is to promote effective, lasting learning, raise awareness, and develop critical thinking skills. In this context, all the studies in this section are written with the philosophy of doing the best for the child, aiming to enhance both their educational experience and their broader cognitive and emotional development.