Cultural heritage in early childhood education: a systematic review

ABSTRACT

This study aims to reveal the status of cultural heritage in early childhood education and its content through a systematic literature review. A search of major databases (Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) was performed to identify related articles. Eighteen articles were identified and analysed, considering their topics, countries, methods, techniques, pedagogical practices, and suggestions. The articles highlighted the types or dimensions of cultural heritage commonly developed in preschools and the relevant pedagogical practices in the early childhood context. Though not many studies were found, the topics, countries, methods, techniques, pedagogical practices, and suggestions of cultural heritage studies in early childhood vary. Furthermore, a research agenda was provided for future studies on the subject.

KEYWORDS:

• Early childhood
• Early childhood education
• Cultural heritage
• Cultural heritage education
• Systematic review

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to thank Dr. Faruk Seyitoğlu for his valuable comments, which contributed to this study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).