EDUC 1055 Introduction to Outdoor Education
This course will show students how to use physical, cognitive, and affective methods to teach lessons in varied settings to different audiences linking educational theories to teaching methods and applications to foster optimal learning. Students will apply educational theories to outdoor teaching methods and learn to select and deliver the instructional strategy that works best for their audience, whether working for a secondary school, college, camp, tour operator, environmental learning center, guide service, or government agency. (2 lect. 2 lab)
Major Topics
- Define concepts and components of what outdoor education is and the details of professional expectations for an outdoor educator
- Understanding teacher preparation requirements, teaching effectively in a variety of outdoor settings, and the design of lesson plans
- The development of methods and delivery of outdoor education
- Enhancing the audience’s awareness, appreciation, and knowledge of the outdoors
- Advance educators’ abilities to increase people’s enjoyment and understanding of the environment.
Outcomes
In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:
1. Explore educational theories that support outdoor education, including developmental stages, and learning stages.
2. Assess and understand the backgrounds and abilities of participants, creating a successful learning environment.
3. Examine the uses of physical, cognitive, and affective methods for teaching.
4. Reflect on, evaluate, and improve lesson plans through experimentation.