Outdoor Learning
Flexible spaces where occupant count may vary.
Facilities Condition Assessment and Facilities Master Plan
Outdoor Learning spaces support learning activities which include but are not limited to environmental education, authentic learning, exploration of senses, hands-on learning, gardening, fitness activities, and using the building as a learning tool. With the right environment, almost any learning activity that takes place indoors can take place outdoors. These outdoor areas should be designed to promote engagement, exploration, and discovery.
Are there gardens to support nature-based learning and understanding the farm to fork program?
Is there space for physical learning to take place outdoors and indoors?
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Is there shade to make the outdoors thermally comfortable for learning?
Are there a variety of outdoor seating options for social emotional learning and hands on learning?
Are there large work tables that can be used for wet messy projects and easy to clean?
Are there sources for power and water to support the use of technology and tools outdoors and to clean up messy projects?
Is there lighting to provide students with more time in after school programs to continue projects or to display them for evening events?
Is there WiFi to support the use of technology outdoors?
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Are there outdoor spaces with wildlife to support nature based learning and provide mental wellness benefits to students and teachers?
Is there signage to incorporate environmental education related to nature and the history of place?
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Is there large group seating for students to engage in social emotional learning at lunch, gatherings and learning activities outdoors?
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Is the environment playful aesthetically to send a message to children that this place was made for them and give them a sense of belonging?
Is there outdoor space for movement for physical fitness and for brain breaks?
Is there space for students to be active throughout the day, not just during P.E. classes or recess?
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