Introduce Learning Tools
Interacting with nature is in itself a learning opportunity—which an be as simple as watching the flow of water through the schoolyard. Butterfly gardens, rain barrels, birdfeeders, and weather stations can instill an appreciation for the environment.
Whether formal or informal, tools such as workstations and multiuse areas for inquiry and exploration, whether in science, technology, engineering, the arts, or mathematics (STEAM). Research shows that, when given outdoor assignments, students are able to pay attention for longer periods of time and focus more effectively when they return to the classroom.
Examples of our work
The images below show designs for several schools that integrate learning tools.
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Outdoor classroom: This McCall School plan reimagines an underused concrete plaza, which is separate from the main play area. The boulders (at center) provide seating and define the space.
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Teaching aids: To implement this plan for Leidy School, students and teaches could paint a compass or sundial directly onto paved portions of the schoolyard, creating living lessons on space and time.
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Nature walk: A boardwalk for Kelly School, which expands the learning space directly into the landscape through a bioswale, could become part of a larger neighborhood loop for walking and jogging.
When planning and designing a schoolyard that will open up learning opportunities, consider these elements:
- outdoor classroom
- greenhouse
- solar panels
- teaching aids and educational graphics
- nature walks
