Contemporary Approaches to Outdoor Learning: Animals, the Environment and New Methods

This book explores outdoor learning, focusing on animals as the basis for wider learning strategies and drawing together various outdoor learning approaches for all ages. It offers a contemporary, informative, and alternative approach to outdoor learning for teachers, practitioners, and students.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 259 pages
Publication date: 05 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the realm of contemporary outdoor learning, where the outdoors becomes the vibrant backdrop for learning rather than just a subject matter. Spanning a diverse range of perspectives, from practical insights offered by practitioners to rigorous research-based pieces, the book explores the growing fascination with animals as a catalyst for broader educational strategies. It also brings together a diverse array of outdoor learning approaches, catering to learners of all ages. Within these two distinct sections, contributors, drawn from a diverse spectrum of practitioners, academics, and researchers, present and analyze innovative approaches that challenge the prevailing test-based approaches to education in the Western world. The entire offering presents a fresh, informative, and alternative perspective on outdoor learning for educators, practitioners, and students alike.

Introduction:
The book opens with an introductory chapter that sets the stage for the exploration that follows. It highlights the transformative power of outdoor learning and emphasizes the need to shift our educational paradigms to embrace the natural world as an integral part of learning. The chapter also introduces the two main sections of the book, which will delve into the role of animals in outdoor learning and the diverse range of outdoor learning approaches.

Section 1: Animals as a Basis for Learning:
In this section, the book delves into the growing interest in using animals as a foundation for learning. Contributors explore various approaches, such as animal-assisted therapy, wildlife education, and farm-based learning, that leverage the unique qualities of animals to promote cognitive, social, and emotional development. The chapter also discusses the ethical considerations and benefits of incorporating animals into outdoor learning experiences.

Section 2: Diverse Outdoor Learning Approaches:
The second section of the book showcases a wide range of outdoor learning approaches that cater to different age groups and learning styles. Contributors present innovative programs and activities that incorporate elements of nature, such as nature walks, outdoor games, and environmental projects, to engage learners and promote holistic development. The chapter also explores the role of technology in enhancing outdoor learning experiences and the importance of integrating sustainability and environmental awareness into outdoor learning practices.

Conclusion:
The conclusion chapter summarizes the key findings and insights presented throughout the book. It highlights the importance of outdoor learning in promoting lifelong learning, developing critical thinking skills, and fostering a sense of connection to the natural world. The chapter also provides practical recommendations for educators and practitioners to incorporate outdoor learning into their teaching and learning practices.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of contemporary developments in outdoor learning. By recognizing the outdoors as the context for learning, it provides a fresh perspective on education that promotes holistic development, environmental awareness, and a deeper connection to the natural world. Whether you are an educator, practitioner, or student, this book will inspire you to embrace the power of outdoor learning and create transformative learning experiences for your students.

Weight: 369g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030850975
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022