Edge Hill University<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This presentation outlines a research project which investigates how outdoor learning environments can improve teaching practice, positively influencing the creative processes and educational experiences for students. Conducted as a small-scale qualitative study, the project involves a focus group of seven students currently enrolled onto the Creative Writing course at Edge Hill University. The participants engaged in discussions reflecting on their experiences of sessions held in an indoor classroom compared to an outdoor environment; \u2018Forest Edge\u2019. This space was previously solely used for teacher training in order for them to more confidently conduct Nature-Based Learning for Primary School students. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The benefits of outdoor learning environments have been widely studied, yet their tangible applications remain mostly reserved for the Early Years Foundation Stage of education. Yet, the benefits of learning outdoors do not decrease with age. Findings of this research project suggest that outdoor learning environments foster a sense of creative freedom and reduced stress, which participants linked to deeper engagement with their workshopping experience. Students reported feeling more inspired and less constrained by the traditional classroom setting, citing the changing nature of a seasonal environment as a catalyst for imaginative exploration. Furthermore, the study highlights the value of physical movement (walking) and environmental stimuli in unlocking new perspectives and narrative ideas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While acknowledging limitations such as weather-dependent logistics, the research advocates for the integration of outdoor sessions into not only the Creative Writing curriculum, but also touching on its potential to span across various disciplines within the Creative Arts (and perhaps beyond). By bridging pedagogical goals with environmental engagement, this study contributes to the growing discourse on experiential learning and offers practical implications for educators seeking to enrich the Creative Writing learning and teaching experience through alternative, nature-based approaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Jesse Hill’s Edge Hill University Graduate Teaching Assistant webpage<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n