Schoolyard Enhanced Learning: Using the Outdoors as an Instructional Tool, K-8

This book shows how the school grounds, whether urban, suburban, or rural, can become an enriching extension of the classroom. The author blends theory and practice, providing readers with teacher-tested suggestions and activities for using the outdoors. The book offers step-by-step guidance to help...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author Broda, Herbert W
Format Book
LanguageEnglish
Published Stenhouse Publishers 2007
Subjects
Campuses
Class Activities
Classroom Techniques
Community Resources
Educational Theories
Elementary Education
Experiential Learning
Instructional Development
Instructional Innovation
Instructional Materials
Outdoor Education
Process Education
Study Guides
Teaching Methods
Worksheets
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Summary:This book shows how the school grounds, whether urban, suburban, or rural, can become an enriching extension of the classroom. The author blends theory and practice, providing readers with teacher-tested suggestions and activities for using the outdoors. The book offers step-by-step guidance to help ensure success when teachers take a class outside. It provides: (1) Background that helps present the case for outdoor learning: educational theory that supports the concept; overview of the terminology; research on the benefits related to student achievement; alignment of outdoor learning with current teaching practices; (2) Ideas for making the schoolyard an effective outdoor classroom: the planning process; enhancing and maintaining the site; developing gardens and attracting wildlife; finding community resources and funding; (3) Advice on working with a class outdoors: garnering administrative and parental support; considerations before going out; making the most of your outdoor time; using GPS as an educational tool; building on the outdoor experience back in the classroom; and (4) An array of activities that utilize the schoolyard: activities related to specific subject areas; activities that teach process skills; activities that encourage initiative and build community. Six chapters include: (1) Schoolyard-Enhanced Learning: A Change of Pace and Place; (2) Making the School Grounds an Outdoor Classroom; (3) Taking Your Class Outside: The Nuts and Bolts; (4) Developing Process Skill in an Engaging Environment; (5) Teaching Content -- Area Concepts Outdoors; and (6) Beyond the Schoolyard. Three appendixes are included: (1) Self-Directed Plant Awareness Study Guide; (2) Resource Auction Bid Sheet; and (3) Balloon Launch Data Sheet. Resources, References, and an index are also included.
ISBN:1571107290
9781571107299
DOI:10.4324/9781032682341