Active and green pedagogies through OUTdoor LEARNing

In the context of the COVID-19 crisis, the imperative need for the modernisation and digital transformation of education and training systems resulted in a sudden shift to online learning because ...

Throughout the project, the partnerships fostered the connection of institutions across the EU, exchanged resources and expertise, worked in collaboration to support teachers’ professional development, and engaged in innovative green pedagogical practices. The implementation of the project was driven by the overarching goal of CREATING INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS THAT ENABLE EQUAL LEARNING FOR CHILDREN, CONSIDERING MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCES AND ALIGNING WITH THE NEEDS OF EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS. This general objective, focusing on reshaping traditional pedagogical approaches, was pursued through the introduction of active and green pedagogies, particularly in outdoor settings. To realise this vision, specific objectives were meticulously crafted and pursued: O1. Implement Outdoor Learning: By integrating active and green pedagogies in primary schools, the project aimed to transform conventional teaching methods. O2. Support Professional Development: Recognizing the pivotal role of educators, the project placed significant emphasis on enhancing the skills of teachers, educators, and facilitators. O3. Improve Children's Relationship with the Environment: A fundamental aspect of the project was to deepen children's connection with nature.

In the context of the COVID-19 crisis, the imperative need for the modernisation and digital transformation of education and training systems resulted in a sudden shift to online learning because of the lack of resources and innovative teaching methods. As a consequence, the educational needs of many children were neglected. OUTlearn it! project emphasised the significance of active and green pedagogies in schools that use outdoor spaces for both children and teachers, and highlighted the benefits of these innovative pedagogies, e.g. integration into learning environments, freedom, nurture of the emotional well-being, facilitation of the communication in virtual scenarios, and promotion of the development of key competences. As the project concept evolved, its alignment with the Erasmus+ priorities on capacity building became evident. This alignment particularly focused on inclusive integration, accommodating diverse learning processes through varied spaces and activities, and providing professional support to teachers for the implementation of the methodology ensuring the delivery of high-quality inclusive digital education and the development and utilisation of high-quality digital content.

The Outlearn it! project yielded a range of tangible outputs and significant results, contributing to the enhancement of education through innovative approaches. These outputs are detailed below: 1-PROJECT RESULTS (PRs): • PR1 - E-Book: "Challenging Education - Feelings and Nature in Active Learning": This e-book served as a foundational resource for educators, offering insights and methodologies for integrating outdoor learning with active and green pedagogies. It placed particular emphasis on emotional support for children, equipping teachers with the knowledge to apply these innovative teaching strategies effectively. The e-book was made available in English. • PR2 - Including Outdoor Learning in the Didactic Units: This collection, composed by participating schools, encapsulated real-life didactic units that incorporated outdoor education, active, and green pedagogies. It also provided practical advice for teachers. This toolkit was instrumental in guiding educators in the practical application of these methodologies. It was accessible in English, Spanish, Italian, and Lithuanian. 2-ADDITIONAL OUTPUTS: • Project's Website: The official website (outlearn.eu) was a central hub for information, available in English, Spanish, Italian, Norwegian, and Lithuanian. It provided updates, resources, and insights related to the project. • Corporate Image and Visual Manual: A comprehensive visual manual and corporate image were developed, ensuring a cohesive and professional representation of the project. • Social Media Platform: The project leveraged social media (www.instagram.com/outlearnplus) for broad dissemination. It was a vital tool for sharing project developments, advice, lessons learned, and results, both through official channels and partners’ networks. • Mitigation and Contingency Plan: A robust contingency plan was in place to address potential challenges and ensure the smooth progression of the project. • Dissemination Plan: An extensive dissemination plan was implemented, aiming to spread awareness and understanding of the project's objectives and outcomes. • Brochures, Roll-Ups, Reports, and Minutes: These materials were produced to support communication, documentation, and dissemination efforts, further extending the reach and impact of the project. >>> These materials are available in Annex. In addition to the tangible outputs, the project yielded several intangible results that have had a profound impact on the educational landscape. These intangible outcomes include: • Enhanced Teaching Methodologies: The project significantly advanced the pedagogical skills of educators by introducing them to innovative outdoor, active, and green teaching methods. This shift not only diversified their teaching approaches but also deepened their understanding of emotional and environmental education. • Increased confidence among teachers, who now feel more comfortable and equipped to start including active and green pedagogies in their classrooms. • Increased Awareness and Appreciation of Nature. This change in perception is vital in nurturing future generations who are environmentally conscious and committed to sustainable living. • Stronger Community and International Collaborations: The project facilitated collaborations between schools, educators, and international partners, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.