Developing historical empathy, time and space perception skills through history-themed theatre plays

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Res. Asst. PhD Cemile AÇIL

Thesis Type: Doctorate

Institution Of The Thesis: Gazi University, Eğitim Bilimleri Enstitüsü, Eğitim Bilimleri Enstitüsü, Turkey

Thesis Supervisor: Şerifnaz Gülin Karabağ

Approval Date: 2025

Thesis Language: Turkish

Supported Program: Other

Abstract:

This research aims to develop, implement, and evaluate history-themed theatre plays within the framework of history education; to develop students' historical empathy skills and their ability to perceive time and space through these plays; and to achieve historical contextualisation. The research method is based on the arts-based action research model, and the study group consists of 8 students selected through purposive sampling. The data collection tools used in the research are semi-structured individual interview forms, researcher observation forms, field expert observation forms, researcher diaries, student diaries, and audio/video recordings. The data obtained from the interview forms were analysed using descriptive analysis and content analysis. The research found that students' historical empathy and ability to perceive time and space developed in proportion to the process through history-themed theatre plays, and that historical contextualisation was achieved as a result.