The Effects of Museum-Based Art Education on the Cognitive and Socio-Sensory Development Levels of Preschool Children

In this study, the effect of museum-based art education on children's cognitive and socio-sensory development levels in the context of preschool art education was examined. The study sample consisted of 28 preschool children aged 57-68 months. As an art educator, the researcher implemented the activities in the preschool education institution and guided the process. The research was conducted using the descriptive analysis method and qualitative data. The research was designed on the accessible universe, based on purposeful sampling, 'criterion sampling'. Two classes were determined: experimental and control groups. Within the scope of the research, art education activity plans by the Ministry of National Education's student development and achievement plan were prepared for the students in the experimental group before and after the museum education trip and were implemented with the students in the study group. The research was carried out in the fall semester of the 2023-2024 academic year at the Archeology Museum in the Izmit district of Kocaeli, and in the public kindergarten providing preschool education affiliated with the Kocaeli Provincial Directorate of National Education. The data collection process of the research lasted 13 weeks. Findings reveal that museum education practices enrich children's learning experiences and change their developmental levels. Artworks, sculptures, historical art, and other objects exhibited in museums enrich children's visual experiences, enabling them to become acquainted with different environments and works. In addition, according to the research results, activities and interactive exhibitions held in museums help children improve their developmental levels practically.