Moving instruction outdoors is something that teachers and students both enjoy. Beyond just providing a welcome change of scenery and a break from the usual routine, research has shown that outdoor learning offers a number of benefits to learners.
Benefits of Outdoor Instruction
While educators may want to embrace outdoor lessons, the challenge of executing them with a minimum of disruption and chaos can make them reluctant. FOSS aims to remove any trepidation and provide a framework for successful outdoor education. The three program goals set down 20 years ago still serve FOSS well, whether indoors or out. They are: (1) scientific literacy for all students, (2) instructional efficiency and support for teachers, and (3) systemic reform.
Having students venture into the outdoors allows students to continue and extend their learning beyond the classroom. Students are able to see the key concepts they are learning in action in their environment. This is much more effective than just reading or hearing about the content.
Students are also able to discover applications and examples of classroom content and concepts in their surroundings. Student knowledge can move beyond books so that students observe it in the broader context of the world.
Lastly, these planned and structured excursions allow students to connect with nature authentically. Even though activities are structured, they allow room for students to develop a relationship with the natural systems they are learning about. They develop environmental literacy and experience a sense of accomplishment.
Preparations for Instruction Outdoors
Before venturing outside with your FOSS activity, take note of what type of space you will use. Look at areas that may not be typical or often used by students. You will want to consider accessibility, purpose, size, and boundaries.
The space you choose should have a variety of living and dead plant matter and a range of surface features and environmental conditions. Identifying a wild zone can offer a more authentic experience. The idea is to provide an example of an unmanaged space. You can even look into “taking over” a section of the property to ensure a spot that is more natural. Talk to students about minimizing their own impact on the area.
Depending on where your school is located, weather can present both challenges and exceptional opportunities. Inclement weather can offer the chance to look at environmental concepts like drainage, wind impact, and the adaptation plants and animals need to survive.
You will want to ensure that students have access to the proper clothing to ensure they are comfortable and protected from the elements. You will also need to plan and take action to protect your materials from elements like wind and rain. It can be helpful to have a plan B if the elements prove to be damaging to your supplies.
The environment your students will be studying can also harbor inherent issues like insects, skin-irritating plants, and tick-borne illnesses. Educating students on identifying and avoiding these potential challenges can help to avoid any issues. Encourage students to dress appropriately for their surroundings.
Planning outdoor lessons will require a certain amount of flexibility around when they will take place. You will need to take into account the time of year, time of day, and any specific weather conditions that may be crucial such as sunshine or precipitation. Being adaptable is key to success.
Planning outdoor instruction means organizing your time a little bit differently. You will need to schedule in time to get to and from your outdoor location. You will also need to set time aside to go over rules and boundaries, as those will most likely be different from the ones observed when in the classroom. You will also want to give the students investigative time while outdoors and time for a wrap-up once back in the classroom. You may even need to do some preparation in your planning hour or the day before.
Proper preparation for the class activity also includes providing the needed materials. These may include things like clipboards, measuring devices, and a place to sit. Do a run-through of the activity and make note of what materials should be brought out during the activity. Creating a checklist can help with organization and you should also include a plan on how the materials will be transported outside.
All students benefit from applying and extending their science and engineering practices and content knowledge to the real-world setting of the schoolyard. FOSS is the perfect program to support your outdoor instruction. To support your adventure into the outdoors, we are providing a downloadable safety poster below!
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