Learning doesn’t always have to take place within the four walls of a classroom. In fact, stepping out into the natural world can open up an entirely new dimension of interactive, hands-on education. Welcome to our step-by-step guide on setting up an outdoor classroom, where we’ll walk you through the process of transforming an open space into an exciting and dynamic center for learning.
Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or a community organizer, this guide aims to inspire you with practical tips and creative ideas to make outdoor education a reality.
Let’s embark on this journey to break free from the traditional classroom and embrace the wonders of nature.
Identify the Proper Space for an Outdoor Classroom
The first step to setting up an outdoor classroom is identifying a proper space that is conducive to learning. Look for an area that is accessible, safe, and surrounded by natural elements. An ideal location offers shade and comfort, and fosters curiosity and exploration. Think about if you will need any infrastructure amenities in your outdoor classroom such as lighting, a shade structure, or power for digital teaching tools or equipment.
Co-locating your new outdoor classroom near other outdoor or natural resources on campus is a great idea! If you have school gardens, outdoor career learning spaces, student agricultural programs, or a nearby natural space consider if there is an acceptable area nearby for an outdoor classroom.
Set up All Furniture and Ensure the Space Is Relatively Organized
Once you’ve selected a site and considered infrastructure, the next step is furniture and ensure that the space is relatively organized. For outdoor classroom solutions in the USA, it’s crucial to consider how the layout of the space can facilitate learning. Create designated areas for different activities such as reading, art, or science experiments. Alternatively you could set up a blank slate multipurpose space that can be used for many different subjects.
Pay attention to the positioning of the furniture to promote easy movement and interaction among the students. For example, arrange seating in a circle for group discussions or in rows for focused, directed learning. Better yet, modular furniture can create new layouts for different subjects. Remember, the unique advantage of outdoor classrooms is their adaptability. Don’t be afraid to change the setup as needed to fit various learning activities and dynamics.
Also, ensure that your storage solutions are well-labeled and orderly. This helps in maintaining an organized space where students can easily access materials, fostering independence and responsibility. The ultimate goal of outdoor classroom solutions in the USA should be to create a space that encourages students to connect with nature, fosters curiosity, and enhances the learning experience.
Furniture and supplies should be organized to encourage interaction and discussion, while also offering flexibility to adapt to various learning activities.
Create Lesson Plans to Fit the Unique Environment of Learning Outdoors
Creating outdoor lesson plans can be as simple as bringing your already completed curriculum to the outdoor classroom if it is outfitted with the digital teaching tools that teachers are already comfortable working with.
But outdoor learning also lends itself to incorporating the natural environment into your teaching. This promotes experiential learning and encourages students to interact directly with nature. For instance, science lessons could involve observing local wildlife or collecting and identifying different types of leaves.
Geography lessons could entail studying the topography of the school grounds or mapping the surrounding area. Art classes could be inspired by the natural beauty of the environment, with students using natural materials to create their artwork. Math lessons could utilize natural elements for counting or measuring exercises.
Language and literature lessons could even use the peace and tranquility of the outdoors to inspire creative writing or poetry. These lesson plans should be flexible to adapt to unexpected learning opportunities, such as the sudden appearance of a rare bird or unexpected weather changes.
The key is to seize the unique opportunities that outdoor learning presents, fostering curiosity and instilling a sense of wonder in students. Remember, the outdoor classroom is not just a physical space, but also a catalyst for dynamic, hands-on learning.
Gather Necessary Materials
After understanding what types of lessons your outdoor classroom in California will host, the next step involves gathering the necessary materials. This step requires careful thought and planning as the materials you select should be weather-resistant and durable to withstand the sunny, warm climate of California.
Materials can range from general teaching aids like whiteboards or easels to specific outdoor tools such as binoculars, magnifying glasses, or plant identification guides. Also, consider the necessity for storage solutions like weatherproof bins to hold books, art supplies, or science equipment. In some instances, creating an outdoor classroom solution in California may involve sourcing local materials.
For instance, utilizing native plants or local rocks for hands-on lessons about regional biodiversity. In essence, the materials you gather should enhance lessons and link them with the unique outdoor environment of California.
Secure Any Loose Items That May Pose a Danger to Students or Be Destroyed in Inclement Weather
Safety should be a priority in the setup of an outdoor classroom. Pay attention to securing any loose items that could pose a danger to students or be destroyed by vandalism or inclement weather. Loose objects, like gardening tools or equipment, should be safely stored away when not in use. If there are items that could potentially topple over, such as easels or free-standing chalkboards, ensure they are securely anchored to prevent accidents.
In areas prone to strong winds or storms, consider using weather-resistant storage bins or sheds that are weather resistant to protect teaching materials and student work from the elements. Regularly inspect the area for potential hazards such as fallen branches, sharp stones, or litter.
By maintaining a safe and orderly outdoor learning environment, you not only protect students and preserve materials but also create a space that is conducive to focused, meaningful learning.
Consider What Teachers Need to Move Class Outside Regularly
Teachers already have too much on their plate. Creating an Outdoor Classroom that is easy to use and training on how to bring lessons outside easily can really make a difference. Invite teachers into the conversation and consider what tools would make the outdoor space easy and exciting for them to use. Perhaps a flat screen would allow bringing indoor lessons outside more often, or using a program that provides pre-planned lessons such as The Future’s Channel.
Additionally, providing guidance on how to adapt teaching methods to include occasional distractions is another essential step in the process of setting up an outdoor classroom that is regularly used. Birds and other wildlife, though fascinating, can sometimes divert students’ attention from the lesson at hand. Rather than considering these interruptions as obstacles, use them as real-time teaching moments.
For instance, if a bird lands nearby during a history lesson, briefly switch the topic to discuss the bird’s characteristics, migratory patterns, or role in the ecosystem. Teaching in an outdoor classroom requires flexibility and the ability to shift gears quickly. This adaptable teaching style not only helps to manage distractions but also enriches the learning experience, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
About Constructive Systems Inc.
Constructive Systems Inc. is an outdoor learning solutions company that specializes in designing and installing outdoor learning structures for schools and parks. Our products are designed with safety, longevity, and sustainability in mind. Partner with the best solar sustainability company in California that provides renewable energy options as well as a range of other eco-friendly solutions. Our team is passionate about outdoor learning and providing high-quality products to support it! Contact us today to learn more about our outdoor classroom solutions.
