What Does Outdoor Education Require?

John Dockendorf
3 min readJul 26, 2022

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What is the purpose of outdoor education? Exists a certain subject about which you are passionate? If you answered yes, you can pursue a career in outdoor education! Here are a few techniques to ensure the success of your outdoor education program:

Outdoor education is a fantastic approach to learn about the outdoors and expand student learning simultaneously. Students can apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, and they will leave with enduring memories and a deeper grasp of the world. It also fosters an adventurous spirit. Consider becoming a teacher or managing an outdoor educational program if you’re interested in outdoor education. Whether it’s an extracurricular or credit-bearing program, outdoor education provides students a wealth of benefits.

Children that spend time outside have a greater interest in their studies. They are more likely to retain information due to their intrinsic urge to learn. Moreover, children enjoy learning outdoors and report appreciating school more when lessons are given outside. It’s not surprising, given the number of parents who claim their children enjoy school, especially when it’s outdoors! However, the advantages of outdoor education do not end there!

Outdoor education majors can run wilderness survival courses, function as guides for outdoor activities, and instruct groups in addition to becoming teachers. Typically, outdoor educators attend classes in environmental studies, survival techniques, and first aid. As a result, they can instruct a variety of tasks to anyone. The degree will also facilitate employment opportunities in the field of outdoor education. However, what do you do following graduation?

Outdoor education can be both beneficial and challenging. You will spend a great deal of time interacting with others; therefore, you must excel at customer service to be successful in this field. Environmental studies coursework and past work experience will aid your success in this sector. Depending on the location, outdoor education can be either full- or part-time. Keep in mind that outdoor instructors frequently have seasonal employment and are therefore frequently available 24 hours a day.

Children gain from hands-on natural encounters. According to research, the majority of children learn better through their senses, and outside spaces are great learning environments. They can see all varieties of plants, listen to various species of fauna, and even begin their own gardens. If they so want, they can also harvest their own harvest. Children who participate in outdoor education programs have an awareness for nature and the natural resources upon which they rely.

The training for adventure education consists of a series of courses meant to prepare future outdoor educators. These courses cover philosophical principles, pedagogy, wilderness skills, group dynamics, and theoretical models. Instructors in adventure education must be able to safely and effectively conduct wilderness programs. And they must be aware of their motivations. Nonetheless, there are numerous certification programs available to help you get started. If you choose to pursue a profession in outdoor education, you must obtain certification in Adventure Education (O.B.).

You must be able to demonstrate the effectiveness of outdoor education. Unfortunately, teachers are under an enormous amount of pressure to give evidence for each session. They must fill a box with evidence that demonstrates the effectiveness of outdoor learning. However, this is tough to accomplish. But you should attempt to become an outdoor education attorney if you are interested. Your clients will be grateful! Remember to exercise patience. And do not give up prematurely! Never is it too late to begin.

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John Dockendorf
John Dockendorf

Written by John Dockendorf

Consultant — Hospitality and Outdoor Recreation

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