Outdoor Math: Outdoor Learning and Play

outlook • MAY 2007 LEARNING THROUGH LANDSCAPES groundnotes January 2008 Why teach maths outdoors? Evidence is growing that outdoor lessons help pupil motivation and understanding and encourage an atmosphere of collaboration between pupils and teachers,... More

outlook • MAY 2007
LEARNING THROUGH LANDSCAPES
groundnotes January 2008
Why teach maths outdoors?
Evidence is growing that outdoor
lessons help pupil motivation and
understanding and encourage an
atmosphere of collaboration between
pupils and teachers, which helps children
develop their interpersonal skills.
Moving
outside the confines of the classroom
requires that pupils are given responsibility,
this increases levels of trust and pupils’
sense of ownership.

Lessons outdoors also offer more
opportunities to use different teaching and
learning styles, particularly problem solving
and group work, which enhance pupils’
self-esteem and self-confidence.
Children
report that outdoor lessons are generally
more interesting, varied and relaxed, that
practical lessons are easier to understand,
and that teachers are friendlier outdoors.

Even a simple blast of fresh air, compared
to a hot and stuffy classroom, can make a
welcome difference.

Outdoors maths
Schoolgrounds-UK
While any outdoor en Less