The aim of this study was to explore the use of preschool outdoor spaces to create music environments for 3 to 4 years old children. There were two preschool teachers took 30 children to participant this study. The research method was a qualitative case study of a preschool in north of Taiwan creating music environment innovation in the outdoor spaces for 8 months. The implementation process was divided into three stages: exploration, development and maturity period. The environment layouts were changed according to the children’s interests and needs, about once every two months. Children were free to interact with the environment during the outdoor time by groups. Data was gathered through observation, interviews of teachers and principal, parents’ contact books and children’s works.
The results showed that outdoor music environment enhanced children’s learning interest and aesthetic experience. In the exploration stage, the teacher led the children to explore for musical elements in the environment to open up the children’s senses. In the development stage, the music environment was built according to the dynamics and timbre of the musical elements. Finally, the diversity of activities was increased to expand the children’s musical experience. Teachers stated that the biggest challenges in outdoor learning environment were the weather and the placement of materials. Providing waterproof materials and setting instruments as rules would make teaching in outdoor music environments smoother. This study enhanced teachers’ belief that a rich music environment brought the possibility of independent learning for young children.

Authors:
Mei-Ying Liao, Chaoyang University of Technology, Taiwan
Po-Ya Huang, Sunny Garden Preschool, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Professor Mei-Ying Liao is a University Professor/Principal Lecturer at Chaoyuan University of Technology in Taiwan

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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