Analysis of teachers´preparation for outdoor learning activities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v49.94076Keywords:
nature, education, outdoors, physical education, teachers, students, benefits, barriersAbstract
The connection with the natural environment is offered as an important reinforcement of the teaching-learning processes. Outdoor education practices (PEAL) comprise an innovative methodology whose presence is becoming more and more noticeable in schools, due to the benefits they bring to pupils. Previous studies have shown these improvements, but few have evaluated teacher training for these practices, the differences between schools and the needs to carry them out. Therefore, the present study seeks to analyse the perception of training of Physical Education (PE) teachers in Extremadura towards PEAL, as well as its practice, checking possible differences according to the location of the centre and analysing the barriers that impede its practice. 274 PE specialists from rural and urban environments participated in the study. A questionnaire consisting of 11 questions was used to assess teachers' thoughts on outdoor educational practices. A descriptive analysis was carried out in order to gain an insight into the reality. The results showed that teachers have a low perception of training in this area (76.6%), with those in urban centres having the best perception of training (75%). Even so, their practice is higher in rural centres (64.8%). It was concluded that teachers in general need to increase their training in PEAL, particularly teachers in rural schools, and that their practice should be promoted, especially in urban schools where it is less common, due to the lack of nearby natural spaces, among other reasons. Barriers include those related to administration, lack of information and the risk involved in this practice. Therefore, the support of the educational community and competent administrations would be necessary for its implementation.
Keywords: Nature, education, outdoors practice, physical education, teachers, students, benefits, barriers.
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