Outdoor learning is rapidly acquiring the status of transformational methodology in young students’ education where several benefits are accruable that traditional classrooms may not provide. That is what sets up a closer association between nature and the great outdoors with the learning experience, providing environmental stewardship at an early age. It has been shown that outdoor learning can greatly enhance physical health by making children involved in physical activities so important for their growth and development. Moreover, the natural setting instigates curiosity and creativity. It would provides an open-ended learning environment that instills critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

One of the major benefits associated with outdoor learning is the promotion of positive mental health. Nature calms a person, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves general well-being. It becomes very important in today’s fast world of technology when children are exposed to a heap of screen time. Outdoor learning promotes social skills and teamwork as well. Only in a natural setting, the tendency of the students towards collaboration and working in a team with effective communication will increase, teaching them interpersonal skills that will always come in handy in the future.

Besides, outdoor learning has multiple hands-on and experiential learning opportunities, which most of the time turn out to be more interactive and memorable than indoor learning activities. Being able to apply knowledge in real contexts, such as through activities like gardening, walking in nature, or simply conducting experiments outdoors, enriches understanding and raises retention capability. This approach also benefits teachers by providing a very dynamic and flexible teaching environment that can be tailor-made according to different learning styles and preferences.

It requires some planning and resources to make outdoor learning part of the curriculum, but the benefits offset the challenges. Levels of students’ engagement and enthusiasm for learning are reported to be higher in many schools by adopting this approach. On the other hand, the same can be said for parents and communities who play their roles in support of outdoor learning. They offer valuable resources and opportunities to learners to explore and learn beyond the classroom walls.

Written by:

Aries A. Altiche
Teacher III, A. DELA ROSA ES