FEATURE FOCUS: OUTDOOR LEARNING


Greater inspiration across all subject areas Nature provides inspiration for so many different things and is far more than geography and science. It boosts understanding and enjoyment of subjects such as maths and English. Nature provides inspiration for writing, art and there are many creative ways of demonstrating abstract mathematical concepts by rooting them in the real world.


Learning and developing new life skills Fundamental life skills too are developed by learning outdoors. Studying in unpredictable nature develops practical science skills and problem solving. Dealing with complex, messy data and adapting to the unexpected are essential to equip learners for the 4th industrial revolution.


Developing and strengthening social skills Outdoor learning develops important personal and social skills. Being away from the classroom whether that be a traditional one or one which parents have set up at home during lockdown breaks up the monotony of learning in the same space every day. It allows children to connect with their learning


in different ways. And once back at school, providing time and opportunity for learning outside enables children to engage with each other in a different way too. It breaks up traditional hierarchies and enables learners to overcome new challenges together in shared spaces where social distancing can be achieved safely.


Increased knowledge and understanding For some subjects such as science and geography, fieldwork and outdoor learning forms an essential part of understanding the subject. Being out in the ‘real world’ reinforces theoretical learning. Seeing, exploring and experiencing the natural world first-hand provides scope for deeper and better understanding.


Increased motivation for learning Bringing subjects to life not only increases understanding for subjects but often engages or re-engages pupils with their subject. Exploring new environments can improve motivation and


attitude to learning in ways which are not possible inside the classroom. Practical and fun learning sessions in the real world mean students see the relevance of what they are being taught. Back in the classroom, the benefits of time


spent outdoors learning is clear for both teachers and students alike. Students will be enthused from their time connecting with the environment and once the hubbub of excitement dies down, teachers will see improved concentration levels among pupils as they engage with tasks in a more curious and knowledgeable way.


But this isn’t all.


Confidence Pupils develop confidence, resilience and optimism through outdoor learning. They become more tolerant and develop more of a ‘can do’ attitude. Tasking children with new, fun and engaging challenges where they don’t realise they are learning makes them more willing to succeed.


Building this kind of resilience at a young age helps to equip pupils for setbacks not just in their academic work but also throughout the rest of life.


Motivation Pushing youngsters to learn new skills independently and as part of a team outside of the classroom leads to improved drive and motivation once back in class. Over time teachers will see a new level of perseverance, optimism and focus develop among many pupils.


Awareness With the world facing a number of environmental challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss, pupils who spend more time outdoors will grow with a much greater environmental awareness. They will begin to understand their impact on the world and how their actions and choices affect the environment in which they live. Having a knowledge and understanding of the world will enable pupils to make good decisions as they grow older.


Passion With awareness comes passion and in a world where everyone feels connected to the environment we can all enjoy its benefits but at the same time make choices which will help protect its future. For now though, as we, like the rest of the


nation, await further guidance from the Government and plan for a way to reopen and operate our field study centres safely, we would strongly urge education practitioners to look at building more outdoor learning into their timetables when pupils return to school and for parents we would encourage, where possible, for you to take learning with your children outside. We can support parents with home-learning


resources and we can provide guidance and support to teachers and schools on safe ways to conduct fun outdoor learning lessons.


uhttps://www.field-studies-council.org/ fsc-fieldworklive/


June 2020 www.education-today.co.uk 29


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