Outdoor Learning
Outdoor Learning is an educational approach where teachers use outside spaces as classrooms to enhance children's learning and development. This teaching method moves beyond traditional indoor classroom settings to use gardens, parks, forests, or playground areas for hands-on learning experiences. It's sometimes called "nature-based learning" or "outdoor education." This approach has become increasingly popular in primary schools as research shows it can improve student engagement, physical health, and understanding of subjects like science, math, and environmental studies. Similar concepts include Forest Schools, Nature-Based Education, or Environmental Education.
Examples in Resumes
Developed and implemented Outdoor Learning curriculum for Year 3 students
Led weekly Outdoor Learning sessions focusing on science and environmental awareness
Created risk assessments and safety protocols for Outdoor Learning activities
Integrated Nature-Based Learning into core curriculum subjects
Coordinated Outdoor Education programs across multiple grade levels
Typical job title: "Outdoor Learning Teachers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Outdoor Learning Teachers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a school-wide outdoor learning curriculum that meets national educational standards?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience in curriculum development, alignment with learning objectives, cross-subject integration, and how to train other teachers in outdoor learning methods. Should mention assessment strategies and safety considerations.
Q: How do you measure the impact of outdoor learning on student achievement?
Expected Answer: Should explain various assessment methods, both formal and informal, tracking student progress, gathering feedback from parents and colleagues, and adapting programs based on outcomes.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you adapt outdoor learning activities for children with different needs and abilities?
Expected Answer: Should discuss practical experience in modifying activities, working with teaching assistants, ensuring inclusion, and maintaining safety while meeting individual learning needs.
Q: What strategies do you use to manage behavior during outdoor learning sessions?
Expected Answer: Should describe specific techniques for maintaining structure outdoors, establishing boundaries, using positive reinforcement, and handling challenging behavior while keeping children engaged.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety considerations do you take into account when planning outdoor learning activities?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic risk assessments, weather considerations, appropriate supervision ratios, first aid requirements, and having backup plans.
Q: How do you incorporate outdoor learning into teaching core subjects like math or literacy?
Expected Answer: Should provide simple examples of outdoor activities that support learning objectives, such as counting natural objects for math or using nature for creative writing inspiration.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic outdoor activity planning
- Understanding of safety procedures
- Ability to link activities to curriculum
- Basic behavior management outdoors
Mid (2-5 years)
- Adapting activities for different abilities
- Weather-appropriate lesson planning
- Risk assessment completion
- Parent and colleague communication
Senior (5+ years)
- Curriculum development
- Staff training and mentoring
- Program evaluation and improvement
- School-wide implementation strategies
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic safety requirements
- Lack of experience with risk assessments
- Unable to connect activities to curriculum goals
- No knowledge of inclusive teaching practices
- Poor understanding of safeguarding procedures
Related Terms
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