Teaching and Learning in the Outdoor Classroom (T-LOC) Early Childhood Edition
- 5 Sections
- 23 Lessons
- 4 Quizzes
- 8 Assignments
- 4h Duration
Introduction
Module 1
- 1.1 Module at a Glance: Playbased Learning in Outdoor Settings
- 1.2 Scenario: Playbased Learning in Outdoor Settings
- 1.3 Teacher Reflection: Play-based Learning
- 1.4 Presentation: Overview of Play-based Learning in Outdoor Settings
- 1.5 Reading: Apples, Play-based and Guided Play Experiences in Pre-K
- 1.6 Check for Understanding: Playbased Learning in Outdoor Settings
- 1.7 Educator in Action: Kristen Cunningham - Early Learning Academy - Marymount University
- 1.8 Module 1 Summary
Module 2
- 2.1 Module at a Glance: 5E instructional model
- 2.2 Scenario: 5E Instructional Model
- 2.3 Teacher Reflection: 5E instructional model
- 2.4 Presentation: 5E Instructional Model
- 2.5 Reading: Patterns in Nature, Kelsey Chandler Bird
- 2.6 Check for Understanding: 5E instructional model
- 2.7 Educator in Action: Kelsey Chandler Bird
- 2.8 Module 2 Summary
Module 3
- 3.1 Module at a Glance: NAEYC Standards
- 3.2 Scenario: NAEYC Outdoor Instruction
- 3.3 Teacher Reflection: Planning and Instruction for the Outdoors
- 3.4 Presentation: NAEYC Standards
- 3.5 Reading: The NAEYC Early Childhood Program Standards
- 3.6 Check for Understanding: NAEYC Standards
- 3.7 Educator in Action: Dr. Marisel Torres-Crespo, Hood College
- 3.8 Module 3 Summary
Module 4
- 4.1 Module at a Glance
- 4.2 Scenario: Designing Instruction
- 4.3 Teacher Reflection: Designing Instruction for Outdoor Learning
- 4.4 Presentation: Designing Instruction for Outdoor Learning
- 4.5 Reading: Keister Elementary’s Enchanted Forest
- 4.6 Check for Understanding: Apply Your Knowledge of Outdoor Instruction to Analyze a Video
- 4.7 Educator in Action: Dr. Suzanne E. Hiller, Blue Swallow Farm Foundation
- 4.8 Children in Action: Learning in the Outdoor Classroom
- 4.9 Module 4 Summary
New students: Use the enrollment button on this page to get started. Returning students: Sign in using Student Login, then return to this course and select Start Course to continue.
Course Description: Teaching and Learning in the Outdoor Classroom (T-LOC) – Early Childhood Edition
Course Format: Self-Paced Online
Duration: 4 modules, 4 hours
Continuing Education: Certificate of completion (4 Professional development credits for Preschool Certification)
Overview
Step beyond the traditional classroom and discover how nature can transform early childhood science education. Teaching and Learning in the Outdoor Classroom (T-LOC): Early Childhood Edition introduces educators to constructivist, play-based instructional strategies designed specifically for outdoor environments. Participants will learn how to harness young children’s natural curiosity to build meaningful, interdisciplinary learning experiences using the natural world as a primary learning vehicle.
This course is ideal for
- Preschool teachers & early childhood educators seeking fresh, research-backed outdoor teaching strategies.
- Preservice teachers looking to expand their instructional toolkit before entering the classroom.
- Educators, community leaders & enthusiasts passionate about connecting early childhood education with the outdoors.
Course Objectives & Key Content
Throughout this professional development workshop, participants will:
- Master Constructivist Science Methods: Explore how play-based learning outdoors fosters critical thinking and scientific inquiry in early learners.
- Apply the 5E Instructional Model: Design outdoor lessons using the Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate framework.
- Ensure Standards Alignment: Connect outdoor learning experiences directly to National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards.
- Integrate Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Develop cross-curricular learning experiences that bridge science, literacy, math, and art in outdoor settings.
Structure & Requirements
This self-paced workshop is organized into four sequential modules. Educators can complete the coursework at their own pace, making it flexible for working professionals. Upon successful completion of all four modules, participants will receive a certificate awarding 4 professional development credits applicable toward preschool certification requirements. This workshop is ideal for preschool teachers seeking continuing education credits.
Learning Objectives
Module 1: Participants will identify characteristics of play based learning, the benefits of play based learning, the role of the teacher in play-based learning, and ways to incorporate the approach in outdoor settings.
Module 2: Participants will identify lesson components of the 5E instructional model and ways to incorporate the approach in outdoor settings.
Module 3: Participants will detail the components of effective instructional planning and delivery, analyze the NAEYC Early Childhood Program Standards, and identify ways to align outdoor instruction with these standards.
Module 4: Participants will analyze outdoor spaces for educational purposes, and outline steps for designing instruction.
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