Date of Award
12-2017
Document Type
Action Research Project
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Education
Department
Education
First Advisor
Cara Rieckenberg
Department/School
Education
Abstract
A growing number of schools around the United States have begun adding outdoor learning to their curriculum in hopes to improve the education of K-12 students. Teachers are not only focusing on what is available in the classroom, but also looking at nearby surroundings that could benefit their students. Lund and Gaigher (as cited in Palavan, Cicek, and Atabay, 2016), state that learning outdoors is defined as a method of experimental learning through all senses by way of exposure to the natural environment and provides students with more opportunities from which to learn. Learning outdoors is an authentic experience for students allowing them the chance to explore and investigate the world from outside the classroom (Bourne, 2000; Lieberman & Hoody, 1998; Louv, 2008; Sobel, 2005). This research found learning outdoors could have benefits not only to students, but also teachers. The natural world is available and accessible for all to learn from and appreciate.
Recommended Citation
Bjorge, Shannon; Hannah, Tracy; Rekstad, Peggy; and Pauly, Tara. (2017). The Behavioral Effects of Learning Outdoors. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/maed/232