2006 Volume 47 Issue 2 Pages 13-20
The experience of nature is indispensable for the development of young children. In recent years, the biotope is attracting much attention as a place that provides people with an intimate experience of nature. However, the utilization of the biotope in the educational setting of young children has not yet gained popularity. In this study, based on a year-round observation of the way in which young children were involved with a biotope, I attempt to understand structurally the kinds of influence experiences of nature have on children's development by using the "Structural Model" of natural objects that becomes part of children' s primary experience: the senses and emotions involved, the experience of recognition, and their educational benefits. Ultimately, the purpose of this study is to determine desirable ways in which young children have nature experiences for their development. The results of this study revealed that nature education fosters scientific thinking, nurtures respect toward nature, heals the heart, and enhances motivation. Furthermore, in respect to desirable ways for children to experience nature, I suggest the following: (1) to develop both indoor and outdoor educational environments in a complementary and integrated manner, (2) to make "sky/weather/climate" a type of primary experience, and (3) to look for resourceful ways to broaden the use of the five senses in nature experience.
