Integrating mathematics with children's literature has emerged as a promising approach in early mathematics education. This study explores the use of the picture book Just a Little Bit (Tompert, 1997) as a pedagogical tool for introducing the concept of mass measurement to preschool children. The aim of the study was to design and implement story-based mathematical activities inspired by the narrative and to examine children's engagement and emerging understanding of mass comparison. The study involved 24 children aged 4–5 years attending a kindergarten in Slovenia. Six structured activities were conducted over a three-week period. Data were collected through systematic observation and analysis of children's drawings representing balance scales.The results indicate that the story stimulated children's interest and supported their engagement in measurement-related activities. Most children were able to distinguish between heavier and lighter objects and recognize the basic function of a balance scale, although only a small proportion accurately represented the direction of imbalance in their drawings. The findings suggest that children's literature can provide a meaningful context for introducing early mathematical concepts when combined with hands-on activities and guided discussion.
This paper presents an educational framework developed to promote the values and skills that business students require to successfully navigate the ethical and environmental challenges in the current digital era. The work focuses on the development of green skills and responsible digital behaviour in business students through innovative and interdisciplinary learning that integrates sustainability principles with digital citizenship. Drawing on a narrative exploration of the literature on digital citizenship, sustainability education, and gamified learning, the paper proposes three educational activities based on playful learning, gamification, business games, and project-based learning. Each activity is based on instructional techniques that promote civic engagement, critical thinking, and reflection about the future social and environmental responsibilities of business managers. By placing business education within the framework of sustainability and digital citizenship, this paper offers teachers and instructors a hands-on approach for developing future graduates who are socially conscious of the impact of their decisions. Rather than presenting empirical findings, the paper provides a conceptual and practice-oriented framework for designing sustainability-oriented and digitally responsible learning experiences in business education.
