Design-based research in preschool environments: co-researching with children through field studies in kindergartens applying Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and Waldorf approaches in Türkiye

The study focuses on design-based research methodologies for enhancing preschool environments through co-researching with children and child-centred educational approaches, such as those of Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and Waldorf, which are extensively applied in Turkish preschool education. Qualitative research was conducted with 23 children aged 4–6.5 years in three kindergartens in İzmir, Türkiye, through field studies using design-based methods (mind maps, two-dimensional works (drawings), three-dimensional works (models)), narrative-based methods (verbal expression: interviews), and focus group interviews. It explores how children’s insights can inform the design of preschool environments by evaluating children’s perceptions, ideas, needs, and expectations through their participation with design-based tools.