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: NAEYE 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 Insruction
- 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
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.
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