What do we mean by outdoor learning?
Outdoor learning is an educational approach that takes place outside of the traditional classroom setting, utilising the natural environment and real-world experiences to facilitate learning. It’s a broad term encompassing various activities that encourage exploration, discovery, and hands-on engagement with the world around us. https://www.outdoor-learning.org/workforce/the-outdoor-professional.html The diagram below shows what a professional in outdoor learning does and the values they hold.
There are several branches of outdoor learning, each with their own principles and benefits. There are also many similarities between the different branches, particularly when it comes to the key benefits gained through outdoor learning experiences.
The variety of approaches and opportunities for outdoor learning mean that there should be an element out there suitable for everyone to deliver and/or experience.
| Branch of Outdoor Learning | Main principles |
|---|---|
| Forest school | – Long term – In a wooded environment – Learner led – Holistic – Risk taking – Trained leaders |
Montessori approach | – Observation of life – Care for plants and animals – The virtue of patience – Inspired by nature |
| Adventure education | – Use of adventure activities e.g. watersports, climbing – Physically active – Challenging boundaries |
| Environmental education | – Knowledge and understanding of the environment and environmental challenges – Attitudes of concern developed for the environment and motivation to improve environmental quality |
| Outdoor play | – Exposes to the natural world through exploration, experimentation and manipulation of the senses |
| Field studies | – Involves research and/or data collection to investigate the ecosystem, habitat or area being studied. |
| Experiential | – Involves direct experience – Involves reflection after the experience |
There are clear overlaps between many of the facets of outdoor learning and the outcomes can be similar. Knowing what type of outdoor learning you are trying to deliver and what the outcomes and benefits might be is a good place to start. In this section we will look at the benefits and barriers in a bit more detail.
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