Today, technology is everywhere and children are spending time indoors on their smart devices, computers etc. While this can be seen as a good thing where they can learn more about technology and become technology savvy, there are certain drawbacks to this as well. For example, they will not understand the beauty of nature and will miss many opportunities to interact with others face to face.
With the incorporation of school incursions, they can become more active from a young age. And this is a great way of improving their overall wellbeing. There are many outdoor activities that students can take part in such as sports, hiking, gardening, nature walks etc. In addition to building their physical fitness, it also teaches students to see a different perspective of nature. Being more active, it improves the students’ cardiovascular fitness. They will feel stronger each day allowing them to achieve more than they had previously. For example, they will be able to hike much longer distances without being fatigued and be able to refine their technique in a certain sport. All of this allows them to improve their motor skills and coordination. This prevents the students from getting used to a sedentary life which can help them avoid many health related issues. And practising fitness from a young age makes it easier for them to develop a habit of being active which will be something that they can practise when they become adults as well.
It is not just physical fitness that sees an improvement with outdoor education programmes. It also has an effect on the mental and emotional wellbeing of students. Where life can be chaotic and messy, the students can feel a calm respite in nature and this can help reduce their stress levels significantly. And them being able to relax outdoors gives them a break from academic pressures and family life issues. Students will experience the freedom of open spaces and the calmness of fresh air when they take part in these programmes. This allows them to develop an appreciation towards nature. From a young age, these programmes can educate students about pollution, sustainability and how they can protect the environment. This will help them become more responsible for natural life and be more mindful of the planet. And these programmes focus on teamwork and social skills so students will learn valuable skills such as collaboration and communication.
These outdoor programmes can encourage students’’ curiosity. They will want to know why certain natural phenomena occur and this will lead them to the path of exploration. There are also critical thinking and problem solving skills that will develop as a result of these programmes. And it can be exciting to experience hands-on exploration and learn through what you see and experience. This gives students a deeper understanding of ecosystems and how connections are made in nature. They will learn about biodiversity and many other environmental concepts through experience instead of in a classroom which will help them achieve a deeper comprehension of the world.