First off, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page, what exactly is learning outside the classroom? I think it is learning anywhere other than within your usual four walls; that could be green spaces and woodland (my stomping ground!), the built environment, cultural sites, beaches, the list goes on! You name it, as long as you could potentially get lost then you are learning outside the classroom!
Learning outside the classroom often means learning outside of your comfort zone, so why do it? While delivering a workshop on plants in the new(est) primary curriculum at the ASE Primary Science Annual Conference on the 14 June 2013, I asked the 40 or so primary teachers sat before me: “what is your favourite thing about outdoor learning?”. I would like to share their answers. I also asked “what is the most difficult thing about learning outside the classroom?”- but we’ll save that for another blog entry!
Here are their answers...
What’s great is that this teacher ‘data’ is backed up by research. A review of research on outdoor learning by Rickinson et al. 2004 highlights the demonstrable educational benefits and provides a source of support, justification and an evidence base for educators looking to undertake more learning outside the classroom.
Bird, 2004 also reported the health benefits are widely reported and there is a positive relationship between physical activity and cognitive functioning that includes concentration, memory and language. Contact with nature has been associated with improved symptoms among students with attention deficit disorder, and also improves self-discipline.
We know it’s a great resource, our students love it and there is real evidence to back us up so what’s stopping you? If its subject knowledge, activity ideas, planning and logistics then I am here to help! Either through this blog, on CPD sessions I lead at the National Science Learning Centre or work I do in schools. Watch this space or send me a tweet :o) ( Dr Katherine Forsey @DrBiol)
You may be interested in Leading Science in the Outdoor Classroom at the National Science Learning Centre.
The national network of Science Learning Centres offers a range of cpd activities related to helping teachers develop skills and activities for learning outside the classroom.