Photo by Tyler McRobert on Unsplash

Engaging Students Outdoors

Sunday 14th April 2024
TL;DR I realized that moving classes outside can enhance student engagement and accommodate their needs for fun and sunshine.

As a student teacher, I recently encountered a situation where my students seemed lethargic and expressed a strong desire to go outside instead of focusing on our studies. This observation led me to reflect on their behavior and the underlying reasons for it.

During my conversation with Noa, I explored the idea that the beautiful weather likely played a significant role in their reluctance to engage in classroom activities. It became clear that they were not necessarily disinterested in learning; rather, they craved the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and have fun, which is something many students lack due to their busy schedules.

Through this reflective process, I came to understand the importance of empathy towards my students' feelings and needs. I recognized that when students feel cooped up inside, their motivation can wane, much like plants needing sunshine to thrive. This realization surprised me but also deepened my understanding of their perspective.

Moving forward, I committed to adapting my teaching environment by considering outdoor classes when the weather is nice. Additionally, I plan to rethink my lessons if I notice that students are feeling lethargic. These commitments stem from my newfound insight into how outdoor learning can significantly enhance student engagement.

In conclusion, this experience has inspired me to be more attuned to my students' needs and preferences. By fostering an environment that accommodates their desire for sunshine and fun, I believe I can create a more engaging learning atmosphere. After all, understanding our students is key to helping them flourish.

Summarised by ChatGPT [gpt-4o-mini-2024-07-18; https://platform.openai.com ]

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