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Evaluating the impact of F orest S chools: a collaboration between a university and a primary school
Author(s) -
Slade Melanie,
Lowery Claire,
Bland Ken
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
support for learning
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.25
H-Index - 30
eISSN - 1467-9604
pISSN - 0268-2141
DOI - 10.1111/1467-9604.12020
Subject(s) - context (archaeology) , psychology , pedagogy , medical education , sociology , library science , medicine , geography , computer science , archaeology
The F orest S chool movement, an important part of education in S candinavia, has gained momentum in the UK in recent years. Within the context of declining access to, and engagement with, the natural environment F orest S chools can provide invaluable life experiences for our children. In 2012 the U niversity of N orthampton investigated opportunities to develop part of its campus as a forest site for use by schools and to enhance its students' learning. A researcher from the university evaluated the impact of visits made by children from the pilot primary school through a series of pupil, staff and parent interviews. Analysis of the interview data showed that evidence of impact was anecdotal and it was clear that a systematic approach was needed. The university and school have collaborated in developing a toolkit for evaluating this impact, which will act as a starting point to support other schools visiting the site.