Outdoor learning: Science

Science

Science gives students opportunities to develop an understanding of important science concepts and processes including the practices used to develop scientific knowledge, the contribution of science to our culture and society, its applications in our lives and an ability to make informed decisions about our environment and resources, and how we interact with them in sustainable ways. Outdoor learning programs support students to develop scientific knowledge, understandings and skills and apply them in making informed decisions about local, national and global issues related to students' immediate school environment and environments they may access through excursions in nature.

Learning in the outdoors provides opportunity for students to develop science inquiry skills by identifying and constructing questions, proposing hypotheses and suggesting possible outcomes. The outdoors can also provide a context for learning about science as a human endeavour in terms of the use and influence of science: students can explore how science knowledge and applications affect peoples’ lives, including their work and outdoor recreation, and how science is influenced by society and can be used to inform decisions and actions about the environment. Many science inquiry skills can be developed when learning in the outdoors.