Bridging the Classroom and Nature: Dilemmas Faced by Teachers in Outdoor Education

Authors

  • Aisha Khan Senior Lecturer in Education University of Bolton
  • Ravi Patel Lecturer in Environmental Education University of West London

Keywords:

Outdoor education, experiential learning, teacher challenges, resource allocation, institutional support, pedagogical strategies, K-12 education, nature-based learning

Abstract

Outdoor education offers unique opportunities for experiential learning, fostering a deeper connection with nature and enhancing student engagement. However, the integration of outdoor education into traditional classroom settings presents numerous challenges for teachers. This paper explores the dilemmas faced by educators in facilitating outdoor education, including logistical, institutional, and pedagogical obstacles. Teachers must navigate constraints such as limited resources, lack of institutional support, and varying student responses to outdoor settings. By examining these dilemmas, the paper emphasizes the need for more comprehensive teacher training, better institutional frameworks, and resource allocation to promote effective outdoor education. The study concludes with recommendations for addressing these challenges to create a seamless bridge between classroom learning and nature-based education.

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Published

2024-10-10