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Hello!
I think this is a great question to bring up especially during the time we are in. For some students still learning remote, teachers can create learning opportunities for students to get outside and learn more about what lives and grows right within their neighborhood or yard. [I must note here that I am from a very rural community in the Midwest, therefore the context with which I view this question may be different from someone who lives in a more urban environment.]
I think getting students involved with inquiry-based learning experiences outside the immediate classroom setting is so important. In the kindergarten classroom, I recently observed, the teacher completed a lesson on exploration in science and she gave each student a magnifying glass and led them outside to the front of the schoolyard. The students were absolutely thrilled to simply be outside and look at bugs, bark, grass, and even dirt up close with their magnifying glasses. This was so simple, yet I know students will remember this experience because it was hands-on, interactive, and in an authentic setting.
I think any time students can actively engage with their immediate environment, they increase the opportunity to build deeper meaning and retention of content being presented. In our education courses, we talk a lot about creating authentic learning environments and opportunities for the application of knowledge. By taking students out into their environment beyond the classroom you are better able to create these experiences. You are helping build students' worldview through inquiry and exploration, two very important components of STEAM education, and the NGSS standards.
Thank you for sharing your question and generating this discussion!
Makayla
3rd Year Elementary Education Major
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