DESIGNING PERFORMATIVE SENSORY ENVIRONMENTS BASED ON H. GARDNER'S THEORY OF MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES IN A PRESCHOOL INSTITUTION
A. Lapeniene1, L. Neverauskiene2
Lately, innovative changes have been implemented in the field of preschool education in Lithuania. One of these changes is the renewal of preschool education content, which encourages the adoption of advanced practices, the search for pedagogical innovations, and the creation of unconventional learning environments. A holistic approach to learning environment design is being developed, aiming to create conditions for diverse and rich experiences that engage children, stimulate their exploration, and inspire their creative pursuits. A new trend in spatial design, which seeks to further enhance sensory experiences, engage learners, and enrich their understanding of themselves and the surrounding world, is the designing of performative short-term sensory environments. The multisensory aspect of learning environments is particularly important in creating engaging educational contexts in preschool settings. The article highlights the potential of the environment as the "third educator." Based on the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy, the environment should be carefully planned and designed to encourage children's curiosity, independence, and creativity. The article focuses on exploring a multisensory environment created by teachers, as this environment reveals the pedagogical reality and reflects the actual educational vision of the institution.
Research Methodology:
The research is based on H. Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, which served as the foundation for creating various multisensory educational spaces reflecting different learning styles in a kindergarten setting. The study analyzes 14 cases of multisensory space creation, selected by teachers themselves and presented through photo and video materials. Twelve teachers who developed multisensory environments participated in the study. The experiences of creating these spaces were analyzed using the thematic analysis method.
Research Results:
The practices of preschool teachers in creating multisensory environments are summarized through four thematic analysis aspects: educational provocations and child engagement, compositional solutions and aesthetics, variability and development, and changes in the teacher’s role. The study revealed that the physical transformation of educational spaces triggers deeper changes in teachers' activities and roles within preschool institutions.
Keywords: Educational environment, preschool education, Performative Sensory Environments, H, Gardner', s theory of multiple intelligences.