Interdisciplinary Learning through Outdoor Education

Description

Imagine teaching multiple subjects in a single lesson, where students move around, experiment, collaborate, and learn both outdoors and indoors while also understanding and caring for the environment. This isn’t just a dream – it’s possible through outdoor education.

Outdoor education celebrates the beauty of nature and its limitless learning potential. It invites students to explore, discover, and develop a profound connection with the environment.

When teachers incorporate outdoor education activities into various subjects, it not only makes learning more engaging but also deepens students’ understanding of the natural world.

These activities encourage students to think critically, unleash their creativity, and collaborate effectively. Moreover, they offer a unique opportunity to integrate different subjects, demonstrating how they intertwine in real-life scenarios.

At the core of outdoor education is learning through action. Instead of passively absorbing information, students actively engage in hands-on experiences.

By reflecting on their learning, they develop a deeper comprehension of the subject matter.

Experiential learning emerges as a powerful tool that enriches both teachers and students on their educational journey. In this course, participants will immerse themselves in active participation and teamwork, both inside and outside the classroom.

At the end of this course, participants will feel confident in creating experiential learning lessons that resonate with students and foster a lifelong love for learning.

Concept by Ivana Kvasina

Learning outcomes

The course will help the participants to:  

• Understand outdoor learning and its benefits;
• Learn how to combine outdoor learning with classroom learning;
• Learn about the importance of experiential learning;
• Experience and practice practical outdoor activities;
• Design, plan, and share outdoor education activities.

Tentative schedule

Day 1 – Introduction to the course and setting goals

• Introduction to the course and the Academy;
• Introduction to the host city and the week’s cultural activities;
• Icebreaker activities;
• Presentations of the participants’ schools and institutions;
• Identification of the needs and goals of each participant;
• Learning about the key principles and benefits of outdoor learning;
• Discussing how to incorporate outdoor learning into the classroom.

Day 2 – Experiential learning – history

• Learning history (and much more) by walking through the historic center of the city;
• Teamwork – how can we use the knowledge learned on the tour?;
• Discuss why it is important to integrate subjects/lessons/information.

Day 3 – Experiential learning – biology and art

• Learning what we can learn in parks (biology);
• Using learned knowledge for artistic expression;
• Understanding the importance of hands-on experiences.

Day 4 – Experiential learning – physical education, environment, and ICT

• Learning how to care for nature;
• Using digital tools as a supplement to experiential learning.

Day 5 – Experiential learning – geography and cooking

• Cooking traditional dishes as a way of learning (learning about culture in a different way);
• Designing and planning outdoor activities;
• Tips – security and safety plan;
• Sharing best practices;
• Course evaluation: round-up of acquired competencies, feedback, and discussion;
• Awarding of the course Certificate of Attendance.

Day 6 – Structured cultural activities

• Structured cultural activity(ies) according to the hosting location;
• Learning journal: individual written reflection on the course experience;
• Course reflection: self-reflection and review of course materials and resources.

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