Grade 7/8 Shelter being constructed. Photo provided by KPDSB.
Staff with Ignace Public School are taking their students learning outside.
Surrounded by an intricate trail system, Principal Adele Marth says students have spent a lot time in nature over the years.
“Since the pandemic started is when we really started to encourage outdoor learning as much as possible. Whenever and whatever class, whatever they are doing, whenever they could, take it outside. We found that during the pandemic, students mental health is a big factor and when they can be outside it’s still a little slice of normal.”
Photo provided by KPDSB.
When it comes to activities and meeting class curriculum, Marth explains what that looks like.
“The Kindergarten class has created a small outdoor learning area where they have little stumps to sit on, that’s where they do their work, the teacher will bring them outside and they get to do their lessons and work outside in nature. Our Grade 7/8 class has created a huge shelter in the back in the trail system, they tied it into their curriculum when they were learning about structures and survival skills.”
From technology breaks, to physical activity, Marth says there are many benefits to outdoor learning.
“Students that don’t normally participate in in class lessons, the typical lessons, are when they’re outside. They’re talking, they’re sharing, they’re collaborating, they’re critical thinking and doing things we don’t always see in the classroom and it gives them an extra boost of confidence.”
Marth adds outdoor learning also gives students choice in their education and allows them explore their own interests.
