The value of learning in, with and for the Outdoors

The importance of Outdoor education is increasing nowadays, especially after living the pandemic of COVID-19. This type of education helps students appreciate more their environment and to develop their personal, social and emotional skills.
Outdoor learning can take place in many settings and the topics approached can vary: in this way students can learn more about school subjects but also about environmental sustainability. 
Teachers learnt how to design, plan and deliver inspirational outdoor education activities and shared experiences and reflections about it. Thanks to this course, students from all over Europe will be able to enjoy games, group challenges and a variety of exercises in nature helping to create a positive harmony between them and the natural environment.

​This week we welcomed two groups of teachers: Simona, Vilma, Snieguole, Vida and Gailute, all of them from the Lithuanian school Alytsu kindergarten-preschoool “Putinelis” and Patricia, Maika, Gustavo and Beatriz, four Spanish teachers from the school IES Praia de Barraña. The course took place in Bologna, from 02/10/2022 to 08/10/2022.
During the course they did many activities. On the first day, they had the chance to share their fears, their contributions and their expectations from the course, although some of them came without fears! Participants also learnt about the benefits of Outdoor Education, both from a physical and a cognitive point of view.

​We went to a local park, where the participants could experience adventure education in the nature. This morning was mainly dedicated to games played in groups that promoted inclusion and cooperation, so that participants will be able to put in practice these activities with their students in their country.
We also talked and discussed about the 10 principles of Kurt Hahn and his approach to experiential learning and outdoor education. However, participants had to find all these information during a treasure hunt around the training facilities. As you can see, it is possible to learn through non formal education without going too far from the classroom!

​Our participants also had the chance to learn about Outdoor learning in urban settings. Through a digital tool they had to complete some missions and challenges in the center of Bologna and fight to get a higher score!

Last but not least, they could enjoy the cultural activities in Italy! They experienced, the Renaissance in Florence, the mosaics of Ravenna, the San Michele’s castle in Ferrara and above all the beauty of Bologna. Without a doubt, they have put in very good practice the activities outdoor!

​Discover more about this course here