Cultural Heritage Preservation and Museum Awareness in the Context of Animation Films: “The Example of Kuzucuk Animated Series”

Abstract

Individuals being introduced to museums at an early age is crucial for them to acquire museum culture and become conscious museum visitors in adulthood. Nowadays, education is not limited to family, environment, and school settings; rather, with the advancement of media communication tools and technology, these tools also play an effective role in children's education. In this context, content prioritizing the preservation of cultural heritage and the creation of museum awareness for children is prepared not only in developed countries but also on national channels in Turkey. In this study, the "Museum" episode of the Turkish-produced animated series "Kuzucuk," which is aimed at preschool children and aired on “TRT Çocuk” channel, is examined. Document analysis method, one of the qualitative research methods, has been employed in the research. The verbal, visual, and auditory elements in the "Museum" episode of the animated series "Kuzucuk" have been evaluated in terms of conveying cultural heritage preservation and museum awareness, and it has been observed that these elements are mostly presented in a meaningful context. However, certain aspects presented in the cartoon, such as "sole emphasis on archaeological museums," "depiction of the museum without a roof and door," "touching artifacts behavior," and "eating and littering behavior in the museum," may convey incomplete or confusing messages to children regarding museum rules and cultural heritage. Despite these aspects requiring reconsideration, it has been concluded that cultural elements in this cartoon are presented in a manner suitable for preschool children; they are understandable and engaging, addressing the child's realm of understanding. Therefore, it is inferred that the cartoon contributes to the transmission of culture and raising awareness of cultural heritage.

Keywords: Animated Series, Cultural Heritage, Museum, Museum Education, Preschool Period.
DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/14-5-03

Publication date: June 30^th 2024