Teaching Outside the Classroom: The Challenges of Outdoor Education for K-12 Educators

Authors

  • Neha Patel Lecturer, School of Education University of Bolton
  • Arjun Singh Assistant Professor, Faculty of Education University of Bedfordshire

Keywords:

Outdoor education, K-12 education, experiential learning, challenges, curriculum integration, teacher training, safety, logistics

Abstract

Outdoor education has gained recognition as a vital component of holistic learning, offering students unique opportunities for engagement, exploration, and experiential learning. However, K-12 educators face numerous challenges in implementing effective outdoor education programs. This paper explores the various barriers that educators encounter when teaching outside the traditional classroom setting, including logistical concerns, curriculum integration, safety issues, and the need for professional development. By analyzing these challenges, this research aims to provide insights into the complexities of outdoor education and propose strategies for overcoming obstacles to enhance teaching and learning in natural environments.

References

[1] C. Becker, G. Lauterbach, S. Spengler, U. Dettweiler, and F. Mess, "Effects of regular classes in outdoor education settings: A systematic review on students’ learning, social and health dimensions," International journal of environmental research and public health, vol. 14, no. 5, p. 485, 2017.

[2] C. J. Bunting, Interdisciplinary teaching through outdoor education. Human Kinetics, 2006.

[3] J. E. Dyment and T. G. Potter, "Is outdoor education a discipline? Provocations and possibilities," Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning, vol. 15, no. 3, pp. 193-208, 2015.

[4] E. Jeronen, I. Palmberg, and E. Yli-Panula, "Teaching methods in biology education and sustainability education including outdoor education for promoting sustainability—A literature review," Education Sciences, vol. 7, no. 1, p. 1, 2016.

[5] J. T. Neill and G. E. Richards, "Does outdoor education really work? A summary of recent meta-analyses," Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education, vol. 3, no. 1, pp. 2-9, 1998.

[6] J. T. Neill, "Enhancing life effectiveness: The impacts of outdoor education programs," University of Western Sydney (Australia), 2008.

[7] R. Nicol, "Outdoor education: Research topic or universal value? Part one," Journal of Adventure Education & Outdoor Learning, vol. 2, no. 1, pp. 29-41, 2002.

[8] P. Payne, "On the construction, deconstruction and reconstruction of experience in ‘critical’outdoor education," Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education, vol. 6, pp. 4-21, 2002.

[9] S. Priest, "Redefining outdoor education: A matter of many relationships," The Journal of environmental education, vol. 17, no. 3, pp. 13-15, 1986.

[10] K. Ramey, M. Dunphy, B. Schamberger, Z. B. Shoraka, Y. Mabadeje, and L. Tu, "Teaching in the Wild: Dilemmas Experienced by K-12 Teachers Learning to Facilitate Outdoor Education," in Proceedings of the 18th International Conference of the Learning Sciences-ICLS 2024, pp. 1195-1198, 2024: International Society of the Learning Sciences.

[11] K. Sandell and J. Öhman, "An educational tool for outdoor education and environmental concern," Journal of Adventure Education & Outdoor Learning, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 36-55, 2013.

[12] B. Wattchow and M. Brown, A pedagogy of place: Outdoor education for a changing world. Monash University Publishing, 2011.

[13] A. Khalili, F. Naeimi, and M. Rostamian, "Manufacture and characterization of three-component nano-composites Hydroxyapatite Using Polarization Method."

Downloads

Published

2024-10-10