Progressive education has always been about the “why” of learning, not just the “what”. Watch how these elementary students from Pennycook Elementary School in Oakland California experience the wonder and majesty of the Muir Woods National Park. Reading, writing, thinking and talking their way through the trails, the students enjoy learning in the ancient woods.
Teacher Darlene Wong discusses what it took for her to get the trip approved. Having to justify an amazing outdoor education experience should not have to hinge upon standards or test based criteria. Place-based learning helps kids — as Zora Neale Hurston wrote– “go there to know there”. As the clip suggests, these students see themselves as scientists, naturalists, explorers, and — hopefully– keepers of a precious earth resource!
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/national-parks-turn-classrooms-turn-new-generation-nature-lovers/
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