Examining Geographical Elements Through Documentary: Example of the Anısına Documentary

Abstract

Geography and social studies courses are studied in relation to the interaction between people and place, and alternative techniques that employ visual, auditory elements, and technological processes are supported. In this context, documentaries are among the prominent productions studied in geography topics of social studies. The main aim of this research is to examine geographical elements through documentaries. The documentary series, “Anısına” which consists of 17 episodes and focuses on different artists in each episode, is a music-themed documentary series that stands out in the study. In each episode of the related documentary series, the life story and works of the artist featured in that episode are shared with interested viewers and researchers. A qualitative research method was used in the research process, and the study was conducted in a case study pattern. In the data collection process of the research, the documentary series was examined in detail through document analysis, and in the data analysis section, main and sub-themes related to the subject were created based on the data obtained from each episode through content analysis. According to the results of the study, 9 basic geographical elements were determined as the main theme. The most recurring theme was 'calendar chronology,' while the least recurring geographical element was the theme of 'geographical events.' Based on the study's results, it is thought that using alternative teaching tools such as documentaries (e. g. Anısına Documentary) in the teaching process of geographical elements can motivate and stimulate the students' interest in the course.