| The purpose of this study was to determine current practices of Texas Public Schools regarding curriculum and safety and design. Additionally, the writer purposed to ascertain if both principals and teachers considered play to be an important part of the learning process and if they considered the extension of play to outdoor learning centers/playgrounds both desirable and necessary.;Surveys supplied data from principals and teachers on each of 378 campuses servicing students in the twenty-five selected school districts in Texas. The districts identified to address the surveys were chosen via stratification of five levels based on the State average daily attendance. This update study used two instruments, one for the principal and one for the primary and preprimary teachers chosen by the principal. Four research questions served as the basis for the organization.;The survey divided the items common to both instruments into five sections: (1) personnel, (2) facilities, (3) curriculum, (4) safety, and (5) skills. The information served as a basis for identifying the manner in which schools met the outdoor learning needs of young children through professional personnel assignments, provision of funds for outdoor equipment purchase and maintenance, safety standards, curriculum, and arrangement of facilities and equipment for outdoor learning. The study purposed to ascertain if respondents considered play to be an important part of the learning process and if they considered the extension of play to outdoor learning centers/playgrounds as both desirable and necessary.;Based upon the findings of this study, the writer determined that the planning, development, safety design, and implementation of outdoor learning centers/playgrounds should be a high priority area of concern in Texas preprimary and primary public education. Schools and programs must be proactive in creating a safe enriching environment for young children. |
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