ECED& 137 Outdoor Learning Environments

3 credits

This course is an exploration of nature-based, outdoor learning experiences for all young children. Students will identify the benefits of outdoor learning for children, learn about the teacher’s role in supporting learning in the outdoor learning environment, consider adult comfort levels with outdoor experiences, and examine risk-taking as a part of learning.

Prerequisites: ABED 40 or AHSE 56 (or placement into MATH 87 or AHSE 66 or higher) and ABED 46 (or placement into ENGL 93 or higher)

Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Describe the benefits of outdoor learning environments (OLE) for all children birth-8 years inclusive of all developmental abilities.and recognize the OLE as a place where development is encouraged
Explain the benefits of OLE and how OLE can positively impact children as well as practice conversational skills to advocate for OLE to parents and administrators
Create a plan for an OLE that supports all children’s learning
Identify and practice teaching strategies that can be used in the OLE
Explore and describe personal comfort level with outdoor experiences and risk-taking and describe the value of risk-taking as it pertains to children’s learning and development
Demonstrate strategies for supporting children’s risk-taking and learning in the outdoor learning environment

Total Hours: 30 Theory (Lecture) Hours: 30