A recent article from Twinkl highlights the numerous advantages of outdoor learning and its positive impact on student engagement and development. As educators seek innovative ways to enhance classroom experiences, incorporating outdoor activities can provide a refreshing and effective approach to learning.
Key findings from the article emphasise several benefits of outdoor education:
- Enhanced Engagement: Outdoor learning environments can captivate students’ attention and increase their motivation to participate. The change of scenery stimulates curiosity and provides a more dynamic context for learning.
- Improved Well-being: Spending time outdoors has been linked to better mental health outcomes for students. Nature exposure can reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue, helping students feel more relaxed and focused during lessons.
- Development of Practical Skills: Outdoor learning encourages the development of vital life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. Activities like group challenges or nature scavenger hunts promote collaboration and critical thinking.
- Connection to Nature: Engaging with the environment fosters a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards nature. Students who participate in outdoor learning are more likely to develop a deep appreciation for the natural world and understand sustainability concepts.
- Holistic Learning: Outdoor education supports a holistic approach to learning by integrating various subjects. For instance, a nature walk can incorporate science (studying plants and animals), physical education (engaging in active exploration), and art (drawing landscapes).
To implement outdoor learning effectively, the article suggests several practical ideas and resources for educators:
- Organise nature walks, field trips, or gardening projects.
- Use outdoor spaces for science experiments or art lessons.
- Incorporate environmental education into the curriculum.
- Collaborate with local organisations for hands-on community projects.
By embracing outdoor learning, educators can create enriching experiences that not only enhance academic performance but also support students’ emotional and social development.
For more detailed insights and resources on outdoor learning, read the full article here.
Extra-Curriculum Academic Stretch and Challenge Activities that may be of interest:
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3Education: Language Courses & Interest Classes
3HK provides a wide range of learning experiences for students including academic exploration (English, Chinese, Mathematics and Mandarin) and Enrichment classes (Visual Arts, Ballet, Taekwondo, Abacas Maths and Music). We advocate child-centered learning approach in which we serve children as the priority. We let children explore, share, spark in the classrooms. We provide professional support in helping children to design their individual learning plans to achieve whole-person development.
ActiveKids: The Chess Academy
Since 2004, ActiveKids has been specializing in delivering leading edge fun and educational programs to children ages 3 – 18 in Hong Kong. The Chess Academy offers Hong Kong’s top chess program, led by Grand Masters and expert FIDE coaches. Children learn from the best in a comprehensive program that enhances their strategic skills and character. Summer camps focus on improving tactics and challenging players of all levels.
AISL Outdoor: Holiday Camps
At AISL Outdoor, we believe every student deserves to learn and grow through discovery in the natural world. Our outdoor education programs provide transformative experiences that foster personal growth, leadership, and environmental stewardship. AISL Outdoor envisions a sustainable future where students develop a lifelong passion through learning outside the classroom.
CreativeKids: Design & Architect Programs
CreativeKids has been advancing creative development in children and teens since 1991 with art, design, and architecture programs. Their award-winning courses foster creativity, adaptability, and problem-solving, helping students excel academically and professionally. They also offer Creative Parenting workshops and support for special needs.
Drama Rainbow Education
DRE Learning Lab is an online course for children (5-11) using Drama in Education pedagogy. It offers interactive classes with tasks, drawing, and questions to enhance critical thinking. The course includes parent consultations, fosters independent learning, and promotes social skills through group collaboration.
KFBG Transformative and Mindfulness Forest Immersion Walk
Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden (KFBG) spreads over 148 hectares of land on the northern slopes of Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong’s highest mountain. Surrounded by towering peaks, the site is rich with natural features, including streams, woodlands, orchards, vegetable gardens, walking trails, live animal exhibits, floral exhibits, sustainable agriculture demonstration plots, art exhibits, the Wild Animal Rescue Centre(WARC) etc.
Oxford Scholastica Academy: Oxford Summer School
Oxford Scholastica Academy offers summer courses for 12-18 year olds in subjects like Medicine, Business, Psychology, and Engineering. Experience a mix of theory and practice, learn from top tutors, and build lasting connections. The program inspires academic direction and personal growth in the heart of Oxford. We’d love to invite you to experience the magic of our Oxford summer school and online courses.
