The Nature Of Learning
When teachers connect a lesson to the “real world,” students tend to get more excited about -- and remember -- what they’re learning. Fortunately for teachers, the real world is waiting just outside the classroom: nature.
However close nature might be, though, it’s surprisingly hard to reach. Given the pressure teachers feel to meet state standards, raise test scores, and share a crowded curriculum, they often have no time to weave nature experiences into the curriculum.
That’s where Expeditionary Learning Schools comes in. As part of its comprehensive school reform model, the group has for 15 years equipped teachers to deliver learning expeditions that bring students to nature while meeting curriculum goals. Today, more than 150 schools, representing 45,000 students across 30 states, participate.
Over this time, Expeditionary Learning Schools has proven that integrating nature through fieldwork and real-world projects can meet today's critical standards-based learning objectives while helping kids rediscover nature locally. Independent evaluations demonstrate that participating schools enjoy better teaching, higher student participation, greater achievement, more positive, productive school culture and a greater appreciation for the natural world.
With this track record, Expeditionary Learning Schools is seeking financial support to expand its efforts, by welcoming and supporting teachers independently, beyond its network of fully participating schools. This exciting expansion means that many more students, from kindergarteners to seniors in high school, will experience the new perspective and fresh energy that nature can bring to schoolwork.
To Learn More
Scott Hartl, Expeditionary Learning Schools / Outward Bound
shartl@elschools.org
247 West 35th Street, 8th Floor,
New York, NY, 10001
212.239.4455
www.elschools.org
