Wilderness and Pedagogy: K-12 Teachers' Journey in Facilitating Outdoor Learning
Keywords:
Outdoor learning, K-12 education, Wilderness pedagogy, Teacher experiences, Nature-based learning, Experiential education, Outdoor education challengesAbstract
Outdoor learning provides K-12 students with transformative experiences, fostering a deeper connection to nature and enhancing their academic, emotional, and social development. However, for teachers, facilitating outdoor learning in wilderness settings presents unique challenges. This paper explores the experiences of K-12 teachers navigating these challenges, focusing on the barriers they face, the strategies they employ, and the personal and professional growth they experience. Through a combination of qualitative interviews and a review of existing literature, this research uncovers the practical, emotional, and pedagogical dimensions of outdoor learning facilitation. The study highlights the importance of training, institutional support, and a reflective mindset in empowering teachers to successfully integrate outdoor learning into their teaching practices.
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