Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the workshop on outdoor learning. However, I have done some reading into the importance of teaching outdoor learning and the expressive arts. Through this reading, I have developed a better understanding of how outdoor learning can impact children’s learning and enhance their creativity.
“Education that focuses on the built environment and public art can contribute to young people’s intellectual, emotional and social development as well as their moral and cultural well-being.” (Adams, 2008)
Through outdoor learning, children and young people have the opportunity to get involved in the community they live in. They can become part of the decision-making process and enhance their communication skills. It will also give children something to be proud of to be able to say they helped make something that will be displayed for all to see. Below are some examples of this.
Outdoor learning in relation to the expressive arts can heighten children’s self-confidence. They may also experience language development through persuasive talks and communication with peers.
“Learning does not take place only in the classroom, nor are teachers the only people who have responsibility for educating the young.” (Adams, 2008).
It is important to reiterate that art is not about getting it right, that there is no wrong way of doing something. Outdoor art can be used in many ways. It could be trying to alter people’s views of a certain place, or have an evocative impact on individuals. It does not necessarily need to be the object itself that has this impact, but the idea behind the object may hold a greater meaning for individuals.
“Art is not about objects; it is about ideas” (Adams, 2008)
Learning outside the classroom does not necessarily mean that we should take pupils out to the playground to learn. Places like museums and galleries offer numerous potential learning opportunities for children and young people.
Adams, E (2008) Art and design Education and the Built Environment. In Coutts, G. and Jokela, T. (Eds) Art, Community and Environment: Educational Perspectives. Bristol: Intellect.
