Abstract:

The aim of this study is to classify the thesis studies on the out-of-school learning environment in science education in a comprehensive and holistic way. The systematic review method was used in the study. The concepts of "out-of-school learning environment, out-of-school learning, outdoor school, science center, nature education, extra-curricular learning, extra-curricular learning environment, science museum” were used both in Turkish and English in the surveys. In this context, between 2011-2021, a total of 80 theses were reached, and 43 of the master's and doctoral theses made on the subject of out-of-school learning environment in science education in the national field were included in the study in accordance with the purpose of the research. The obtained data were analyzed by content analysis method. The studies included in the compilation; year of publication, university names, subject, method, data collection tool, study group, variable and pattern type themes. After the data were analyzed, the findings were tabulated and the frequency of use was expressed. Considering the results of the research, it was revealed that the most thesis studies on the out-of-school learning environment in science education were in 2019, the subject title of the science center was most preferred in the studies, ıt has been revealed that qualitative research method is the most used in theses and scales are mostly preferred as data collection tool. It was determined that the participants in the studies were mostly students and teachers. Studies show that out-of-school learning environments mostly affect variables such as achievement, attitude and opinion. As a research design, it was concluded that the experimental design was preferred the most. The research result was interpreted by comparing it with the systematic review studies scanned from the literature.

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