One Or Two Hours Of Outdoor Learning Each Week Increases Job Satisfaction For Teachers

A study by the University of Swansea has revealed that only one hour a week of outdoor learning has the benefits for children and also the job satisfaction of teachers.

Through interviews and focus groups, researchers explored the views and experiences of students and educators in elementary schools in South Wales who had adopted an outdoor learning program, which involved teaching the curriculum in the natural environment during less one hour per week.

Interviews were conducted with principals and teachers and focus groups of students from 9 to 11 years before and during the implementation of a learning program in the curriculum.

Schools in the study reported a variety of outdoor learning benefits for both the child and the teacher and to improve health, well-being, education and participation in school.

The study's lead author, Emily Marchant, Ph.D. researcher in Medical Studies at Swansea University, explained: "We found that students felt a sense of freedom when they were outside the restrictive walls of the classroom." and they enjoyed it too. They have also been sent more committed and more positive with the learning experience. We also heard many say that their well-being and memory were better, and the teachers told us how it helped to involve all types of learners. "

The benefits of outdoor education for children are well documented, but one finding of this study is the impact that outdoor learning program had on teachers.

Emily said: "Initially, some teachers have reservations about the transfer of the outdoors, but once learning in the open air is integrated into the curriculum, it speaks of better job satisfaction and personal well-being. In general, our findings highlight the potential of outdoor learning as a curricular tool to improve school commitment and children's health, well-being and education outcomes.

"The schools within our study have continued with regular outdoor learning within the curriculum." With the support and recognition of educational inspections of the broader benefits for the development and education of children, learning at the outdoors could be established within the curriculum of the elementary school. "

By: Preeti Narula

Content: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/06/190611102710.htm