Outdoor Education and Geographical Fieldwork
Introduction:
The Outdoor Education and Geographical Fieldwork course combines elements of both outdoor education and hands on geography teaching, providing learners with hands o experiences in natural environments in the vicinity of Athens. It includes observation, interpretation, small surveys, fieldwork and presentations.
Description
This course is designed to offer an active, participatory, authentic, collaborative, exciting and constructive experience for the participants. Worksheets, surveys, observation, interpretation and presentations make the course pleasant, exciting and effective.
The course contains:
Introduction to Outdoor Education:
Definition and philosophy of outdoor education.
Benefits of outdoor learning and experiential education.
Geographical Concepts:
Fundamental geographical concepts, such as location, place, scale, and spatial patterns.
Physical geography topics, including landforms, weather, climate, and ecosystems.
Fieldwork Techniques:
Use of geographical tools and equipment, such as GPS devices, maps, and compasses.
Techniques for field observations, surveys, and interviews.
Planning and Conducting Field Trips:
Safety considerations for outdoor activities.
Planning for field trips.
Educational objectives with outdoor experiences.
Environmental Sustainability:
Understanding the impact of human activities on the environment.
Promoting sustainable practices during outdoor activities.
Conservation and responsible outdoor behavior.
Navigation Skills:
Map reading and interpretation.
Compass navigation and orienteering.
GPS navigation and geocaching.
Reflection and Debriefing:
Techniques for reflecting on outdoor experiences.
Debriefing sessions to discuss and analyze fieldwork activities.
Connecting field experiences to theoretical concepts.
Cultural and Social Aspects:
Exploring the cultural and social dimensions of outdoor spaces.
Interactions between human societies and the environment.
Final Projects and Presentations:
Presentation of findings and insights from fieldwork.
Learning Objectives
The main learning objectives of the course:
Basic knowledge
Geological processes, landscapes, human impact on environment etc.
Historical and cultural aspects of the environment
Environmental Awareness:
Understand and appreciate the natural environment.
Develop awareness of ecosystems, biodiversity, landscapes, landforms and processes.
Outdoor Skills:
Acquire outdoor skills such as navigation, landscape interpretation etc.
Learn how to use outdoor equipment responsibly and safely.
Teamwork:
Foster teamwork and collaboration among participants.
Understand the importance of effective communication in outdoor activities.
Risk Management:
Learn to assess and manage risks associated with outdoor activities.
Personal Development:
Build self-confidence and self-esteem through overcoming challenges.
Develop resilience and adaptability in outdoor settings.
Acquire basic skills for outdoor and geographical activities
Understand the impact of human activities on the environment.
Environmental Stewardship:
Foster a sense of responsibility and stewardship towards the environment.
Encourage sustainable practices and ethical behavior in outdoor activities.
Problem Solving and Critical Thinking:
Develop problem-solving skills in real-life outdoor situations.
Cultivate critical thinking skills through analyzing and responding to challenges.
Reflection and Goal Setting:
Encourage reflection on personal experiences in outdoor settings.
Set and evaluate personal goals related to outdoor skills and experiences.
Appreciation of Diversity:
Foster an appreciation for diversity in nature and among participants.
Encourage inclusivity and respect for different perspectives.
Leave No Trace Principles:
Understand and practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact.
Methodology and Assessment
The course will involve an array of different methodological and training approaches, like the following.
1. Introduction to Outdoor and Geographical learning activities: Key terms and concepts,
2. Multidisciplinary Approach: science, geology, human interventions and processes.
3. Special interest spots, like volcanoes, the Corinth Canal, etc.
4. Interactive Activities: simulations, debates, virtual labs and interactive exercises.
5. Field Trips: 2 field trips to areas of geographical, geological and cultural interest. Hands-on learning.
6. Group Projects: Collaboration and diverse perspectives.
7. Current Events Analysis: From theoretical knowledge to real-world issues.
8. Technology Integration: Online platforms, interactive tools, and data visualization climate-related apps
Assessment Strategy:
1. Group Project Evaluation: Group projects based on content, creativity, and presentation.
2. Class Participation: Active participation in discussions, debates, and activities.
3. Reflections and Journals: Depth of understanding and personal engagement.
4. Practical Skills Assessment: related to outdoor skills and geographical-geological knowledge and processes.
By combining a variety of teaching methods and assessments, learners can gain a holistic understanding the essentials of outdoor education and geographical field work
Course program
Outdoor Education, theory and practice
| Day | Activities |
| Monday | Welcome-Registration-Ice breaking activities-Outline of the course program. Program objectives-Participants’ presentations-Needs-Expectations and Objectives-Practical information about the course. Short presentation of contemporary Greece |
| Tuesday | Introduction to the concept of Outdoor Education. Outdoor Education in Europe and Greece Content and processes for Outdoor Teaching and Learning Preparation of an Outdoor Learning Activity Outdoor Education in the framework of the Sustainable School Outdoor Education in the framework of the Climate Change Education |
| Wednesday | Study visit 1 -Cape Sounio –Temple Poseidon -Lavrion-ancient mining area-Golden Age of Pericles -Processing the gold and silver in ancient Lavrion |
| Thursday | Study visit 2. -Corinth Canal -Sousaki Volcano and Thermal Springs of Loutraki Lunch in Loutraki |
| Friday | Open and structured discussion on the experiences of the two study visits. Reviewing the Worksheets and the preparation process. Building on the knowledge acquired at the visits, in the classroom. Drawing conclusions and useful tips for Outdoor Acitivities Certificates ceremony Farewell |
Cost and services
450 Euros (Course and 2 study visits)
Contact:
Dimitrios Kalaitzidis
Sessions
- 2024-4-22 to 2024-4-26
- 2024-9-23 to 2024-9-27
- 2024-11-18 to 2024-11-22
Registration
