Wonderful things are happening in the realm of elementary school science as we break through to a new millenium!  Many traditional science classrooms are arranged in such a way that students read about animals, plants and other science topics from a textbook, but never get a chance to experience the great world of science from a hands-on perspective.  In a recent study however, the University of Florida set out to prove that through outdoor study experiences, children can develop a whole world of new knowledge and a greater sense of appreciation for the environment.

    This study compared the traditional classroom teaching methods with outdoor schoolyard instruction on an environmental science unit.  Two different control groups of 3rd and 4th graders were observed, and the results were documented.  One group was placed in an ordinary classroom with traditional teaching methods, while the other group explored their playground in search of plants, animals and their habitats.  Both the indoor classroom and outdoor schoolyard settings consisted of 10-day units focusing on the exact same material covering plant and animal ecology.  Valid and reliable assessments were given before and after the instruction of the two groups.  The studies found that students who were given the opportunity to explore their natural surroundings performed better on the given unit exam than the students who were taught using the traditional classroom methods.

    This data does not seem out of the ordinary considering the fact that research has shown that children who have been involved in summer camps, field trips, and nature hikes are the very students that show the greatest enthusiasm for science and the environment.  Although many teachers do not take advantage of the natural environment when studying science, this article explains that the potential still exists for students’ minds to be opened to a whole new world of science.

    This article has opened my eyes to a whole new teaching strategy when it comes to science education.  I believe that children learn best by observations in their own environment.  I think that this outdoors approach to ecology has many great benefits.  Going outside to explore the environment does not cost anything!  Proper planning can save a lot of money and the experience can be much more enjoyable than sitting in a classroom!  Also, a change of scenery can improve behavior in students with short attention spans.  This outdoor classroom seems to really give students great opportunities and a first hand knowledge about the environment.