Children Receive Architecture Class This Time

Students from the Beyaz Köşk Kindergarten, operating under Izmir University of Economics (IUE), explored the world of architecture during an event themed ‘How Is a House Born?’ Asst. Prof. Dr. Batuhan Taneri, Head of the Department of Architecture at IUE, visited the kindergarten and, unlike his usual lectures with university students, taught to children aged 4 to 6 this time. The children had the opportunity to closely examine a model house, ask questions they were curious about, and created colorful and lively scenes.

The event, organized to support the children’s cognitive development, imagination, and creativity, introduced the young IUE members to the idea that space is not merely made up of walls. It aimed to help them look at spaces, their homes, and their surroundings from a different perspective. Throughout the event, the children examined the materials used in building model houses and learned about how a house is designed and the stages it goes through before coming to life.

“A DISCOVERY-BASED LEARNING ENVIRONMENT”

Onur Kurtuluş Kara, Principal of IUE Beyaz Köşk Kindergarten, stated that the children had a highly valuable experience that strengthened their thinking and questioning skills. Kara said, “We do not see kindergarten education as limited to classroom-based achievements alone. Our educational philosophy is built on creating a learning environment where children are active explorers rather than passive listeners. For this reason, we support classroom learning outcomes with play-based learning, workshops, sensory experiences, and real-life connected activities. Our interaction with different departments of the University is also an important part of this approach. We adopt a method that connects learning with real life, prioritizes hands-on and experiential learning, and reveals children’s potential through interdisciplinary activities.”

“STRONG FOUNDATIONS MUST BE BUILT”

Emphasizing that they will continue and expand such events that bring Izmir University of Economics’ academic expertise together with children, Kara said, “Our goal is to lay a strong foundation in early childhood for individuals who can express themselves, are curious, productive, and sensitive to the environment they live in. The bridge we build with different fields such as architecture helps children look at the world from a broader perspective. Professor Batuhan explained what is done in the architecture department, how architects work, and how design connects with our daily lives in a language suitable for children. We thank him very much.”