Outdoor learning as an educational concept goes beyond the traditional understanding of teaching which takes place in the indoor classroom.
There is a large body of evidence about the benefits of outdoor learning, including improved language and communication skills, motivation, independence, confidence and self-esteem, concentration, creativity, etc.
All curriculum areas can be supported by outdoor learning but taking lessons outdoors also requires planning and facing challenges that stand in the way.
The course is primarily designed for primary school teachers and other members of staff looking for knowledge, skills, examples of good practice and advice to support the development of outdoor learning in their schools. However, also pre-school or secondary school teacher can benefit from theoretical lectures on experiential learning and first-hand outdoor experience.
Working sessions
- changes in the worlds of our students
- needs that are not met anymore
- trends in the adaptations and modifications of school systems
- concept of learning by doing
- presentation of our concept of outdoor classroom and school programme
- steps in the development of the programme
- obstacles and challenges
- afternoon and extracurricular activities outdoors
- examples of methods and techniques
- survival and scout skills
- cooking outdoors
- making simple cutlery from wood
- taking school subjects and their objectives and programmes outdoors
- preparing and implementing lesson plans
- including students
- examples of good practice
- how to combine outdoor education and new technologies to design lessons
- encouraging critical and responsible use of electronic devices
- how to use what was learnt in practice
- preparation and execution of informal activities
- outdoor lunch
- reflextion
Provisional timetable
| SUN | MON | TUE | WED | THU | FRI | SAT | |
| Morning | Arrival | Session 1 | Session 3 | Session 4 | Session 5 | Session 6 | A |
| Afternoon | Welcome | Session 2 | Visit to Ljubljana | Optional modules | Free | Sharing best practice event | day |
| Evening | Free | International evening | Slovenian evening | Activities evening | Free | Reflection evening | trip |
The timetable with a more detailed description of the activities will be given to the participants a week before the start of the course.
Thoughts from our past participants and some impressions
What is included in the course package?
- course contents and materials
- additional optional modules and a sharing best practice event
- coffee and other refreshments throughout the course
- full-board accommodation
- rich social programme
- a series of networking opportunities
Everything in the price of €1,150.
For more information, see other sections of the website.