Episodit
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As the academic year comes to an end, it's time to start thinking about how to support outdoor learning in the next academic year. Outdoor learning has numerous benefits for both students and teachers, including improved mental health and well-being. Integrating outdoor learning into the everyday curriculum is a great way to incorporate it into the school year. Even if a school has limited outdoor space, there are still plenty of activities that can be done in a concrete playground. Starting small and gradually expanding outdoor learning activities is key, as well as involving parents and providing appropriate training and resources.
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In this conversation, Carol interviews Calum Wright, an outdoor learning specialist, about his journey into education and his experiences teaching outdoor learning in different countries. They discuss the importance of making outdoor learning relevant to the curriculum, the value of simplicity in outdoor learning activities, and the need for teachers to be adaptable and reflective. They also explore the benefits of outdoor learning for children, including improved well-being, connection with nature, and the development of independence and questioning skills. Calum shares his experiences as a teacher with ADHD and how outdoor learning has supported his mental health. They emphasize the importance of play for all ages in outdoor learning. In this conversation, Carol and Calum discuss the importance of play and outdoor learning in education. They emphasize the benefits of play for both children and adults, highlighting its role in mental health and creativity. They also discuss the connection between outdoor learning and sustainability, emphasizing the need to foster a love for nature in order to inspire children to protect the environment. They touch on the importance of building relationships with students, setting clear expectations, and integrating outdoor learning into the curriculum. They also discuss the development of social skills and the future outlook for outdoor learning.
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Elaine Milne, head teacher at New Elgin Primary School, shares their journey in outdoor learning, highlighting significant progress despite initial vandalism challenges. The school gradually expanded outdoor activities to formal lessons, investing in playground markings, reading huts, and sensory areas, leading to increased student enthusiasm, engagement, and well-being. Support from the local community and parents, many of whom volunteer, has been strong. Although they faced obstacles like staff resistance, leadership support and staff willingness to try new things helped overcome them. Provisions for children with additional support needs are included, and future plans feature the Earth Garden project and involving older students in outdoor learning. Elaine advises starting small, integrating outdoor learning into the curriculum, and being organised to make learning more engaging and enjoyable.
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Ian Menzies from Education Scotland discusses his journey in education and his passion for outdoor learning. He highlights the importance of preparing children for engagement with the world and the role of Education Scotland in supporting teachers and learners. He also discusses the Scottish Government Strategic Working Group for Outdoor Learning and the Learning for Sustainability Action Plan. Progression in outdoor learning is emphasized, with examples of how it can be integrated into the curriculum and the importance of community involvement and partnerships. Funding opportunities and the importance of support and resources are also highlighted.
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Summary
Cameron discusses his journey with Stramash, an outdoor nursery in Scotland, highlighting the lows, like the devastating storm and fire the experience to the highs and benefits of outdoor learning and the people he works with. He emphasizes the importance of independence and relationships, provides tips for managing outdoor challenges, and discusses the future of outdoor education in Scotland, including the need for more training and improved facilities.
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Judy Duncan, a teacher with a passion for outdoor learning, shares her journey and experiences. She discovered the benefits of outdoor learning when she took her primary six class outside for short periods every day, which greatly improved their concentration and behavior. Judy emphasizes the importance of making connections with the real world through outdoor learning and believes that children should have the opportunity to meet different people and experience different places. She also highlights the value of incorporating nature into lessons and the positive impact it has on students. Judy provides practical examples of whole school outdoor days, emphasizing the simplicity and low resource requirements. She encourages teachers to plan their week as normal and then consider what activities could be taken outside to enhance learning. Judy envisions outdoor learning becoming a regular part of every teacher's approach, with more resources and support available for upper stages and specialist nature teachers.
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In this podcast episode, we delve into the importance of getting primary 7 students outdoors during the summer term, highlighting the challenges of finding time for outdoor activities and the myriad benefits of outdoor learning in reducing stress and anxiety while fostering holistic development. We discuss various activities like nature scavenger hunts and sensory exploration, emphasizing the role of senses and observation skills in connecting with nature. Incorporating art and team-building exercises enhances the outdoor learning experience, promoting strong relationships among students. Furthermore, mindfulness activities such as deep breathing and nature journaling are underscored for their role in promoting relaxation and reflection. Ultimately, outdoor learning not only benefits students academically and emotionally but also fosters a lifelong appreciation for the natural world and environmental stewardship.
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Juliet Robertson, an education consultant specializing in learning and play outdoors, shares her journey with acute myeloid leukemia and the importance of open conversations about death. She emphasizes the need for teachers to slow down and take care of their mental health. Juliet provides several tips for educators, including focusing on values, minimizing planning time, teaching outside more, and finding healthy passions outside of teaching. She also discusses the impact of collaborative work in the outdoor learning community in Scotland and the importance of play in education. The conversation explores the challenges and benefits of outdoor learning for teachers. It emphasizes the importance of stepping back and allowing students to take ownership of their learning. The conversation also highlights the need for teachers to have confidence in their role as facilitators and to know when and how to intervene appropriately. The speakers discuss the importance of mindset over confidence when it comes to teaching outside and offer advice on overcoming barriers. They also emphasize the value of developing school grounds and the positive impact it can have on both students and the community.
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In this conversation, Carol discusses her experience with hay fever and shares her top tips for managing it while working outdoors. In the second part of the conversation, Carol recommends the book 'Wild Woman' by Philippa Forrester, which shares empowering stories of women who work in nature. She reflects on her own journey as an outdoor practitioner and emphasizes that anyone can enjoy and teach in the outdoors, regardless of qualifications or background. Carol concludes by mentioning upcoming events and resources related to outdoor learning.
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In this episode, Carol is joined by Lindsay Shepherd, a teacher in Aberdeen City. Lindsay shares her journey and experiences in outdoor education. She discusses her time with Tinkergarten in the US and how it inspired her to bring outdoor learning to Scotland.
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In this episode, Carol discusses place responsive education and the use of technology in outdoor learning. She also shares insights from a study by Gemma Goldenberg on the benefits of outdoor learning. Carol answers questions about providing outdoor learning with limited resources, managing outdoor learning with minimal staff, and the curriculum coverage of outdoor learning.
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Join Carol Murdoch on an enlightening journey into outdoor learning and personal growth in this captivating podcast episode. Drawing from Plato's Allegory of the Cave and Carl Rogers' theories, Carol explores the challenges and rewards of outdoor education. Discover practical techniques for building confidence and embracing outdoor adventures. Tune in and step outside your comfort zone to unlock new dimensions of learning and self-discovery.
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Step into the realm of outdoor education with Carol Murdoch as she unpacks the intricacies of playground learning in this captivating podcast episode. Explore the contrasting landscapes of woodland, concrete, and open plan classrooms, as Carol delves into their respective advantages and challenges. From the tranquility of nature to the urban hustle, discover how these environments impact focus, regulation, and academic outcomes.
Carol doesn't just showcase the benefits—she offers actionable insights. Learn how simple additions like loose parts can enhance learning experiences and tackle storage concerns. With a keen eye for innovation, Carol leaves no stone unturned in her mission to redefine outdoor education.
Join us on this enlightening journey where every corner of the playground becomes a classroom waiting to be explored!
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Join host Carol Murdoch on Breaking Into The Playground, a podcast exploring the evolution of outdoor learning and its significance for Learning for Sustainability in Scotland. Through discussions and practical tips, Carol invites listeners to shape the content as they discover curriculum-based outdoor activities and foster a deeper connection to the outdoors. Tune in for inspiration to break the boundaries of traditional education and embrace the endless possibilities of outdoor exploration.
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