Outdoor mathematics trails: an evaluation of one training partnership

Abstract

Outdoor education has received greater attention in the United Kingdom with the launch of the Learning Outside the Classroom Manifesto. However, teachers' lack of confidence and competence appear to be key factors underpinning the extent of outdoor learning provision in schools. This paper reports on a partnership project in which student teachers worked alongside classroom teachers to create outdoor activities in primary mathematics. Findings suggest that such a partnership provides a supporting framework for both teachers and student teachers to develop confidence, competence and enthusiasm for the provision of future outdoor learning experiences.

Keywords:

• outdoor learning
• mathematics
• professional development