Learning locally outdoors

the Traditional model of teaching is imparting the maximum content with the minimum resource to the maximum numbers; room of 30:1. As all schools have structured in this way for 150yrs our models of outdoor learning developed to take these 30 pupils outside. We currently have opportunity to modify OL starting from all the great home/garden learning, joining up in small numbers, focused on where children live and what is useful to learn in context and setting. Then combining into larger gatherings and community settings or schools. Whilst OL can help socially distance numbers in playgrounds, a return to schools as they were looses the amazing parental engagement and localised contextual learning that has developed during lockdown. Progression from family in lockdown to school identified 3 family groupings exploring learning outdoors in own communities. Progressing to combined small groups of 6 families with teacher direct input alternated daily. if safe building to half class gatherings.

Why the contribution is important

Reintroducing schools slowly from where we are currently without loosing the ownership and engagement that has been established with parents. Places schools as a facilitator/enabler of family life long learning rather the monopoly holder of traditional Educational perspective.

by Callish on May 11, 2020 at 03:32PM

Current Rating

Average rating: 5.0
Based on: 6 votes

Comments

  • Posted by NatalieWhite May 11, 2020 at 16:15

    This idea ties in very nicely with place pedagogy, children learning in their own spaces then moving to community spaces etc. Parental engagement was a significant element of the National Improvement Framework and this idea would help to build on the good work already started in engaging parents in meaningful life long learning.

  • Posted by JohnWheeler May 11, 2020 at 21:54

    Yes. Outdoor learning has so many benefits. Outdoor and Woodland Learning Scotland has been doing great work promoting this. See OWLS website.
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