Outdoor opportunities Nature as learning environment at UAS

Outdoor education has proven positive impact on students, teachers ánd the planet. In this project we study how nature can serve as a learning environment that contributes to learning processes of students and to their development towards competent and self-aware young professionals. 

Objective

This research aims to provide an incentive to use nature as a learning environment in higher professional education. The aim is to provide insight into the different ways in which nature can function as a learning environment for the various dimensions of learning processes such as knowledge development, learning to act professionally and developing a professional identity. This increases the relevance of outdoor education for higher vocational education. 

As with other learning environments, when using nature as a learning environment, a distinction can be made between activities aimed at acquiring knowledge and skills and activities aimed at participation, joint learning and participation in a practice. It is investigated how lessons from the development of rich and hybrid learning environments and their influence on learning processes can be translated into the context of the natural living environment. 

Results

  • Fact sheet based on the literature study 
  • Toolbox with example lessons, working methods and pedagogical and didactic tips for using nature as a learning environment 
  • Evaluation and improvement of the quality of existing outdoor education. 
  • (Formats for) peer-to-peer workshops 
  • Strengthening and expanding the 'Nature and Outdoors' community of teachers who (want to) use nature as a learning environment. 

Duration

01 August 2024 - 01 April 2026

Approach

The research includes a literature study and a case study into a number of cases of outdoor education within HU, through observation and (semi) structured interviews with students and teachers involved. In addition, peer-to-peer workshops are given with the aim of collecting experiences, example lessons and working methods. 

Impact for education

The benefits and possibilities for application of outdoor education are countless. However, it is still rarely used in UAS. This research will both contribute to better substantiation for the use of nature as a learning environment and provide tools for teachers to actually start using the outside learning environment. The aim is to make exercise and outdoor education a more common practice within higher professional education.

HU researchers involved in the research

Would you like to collaborate or do you have any questions?