At Teach Outdoors, we’re dedicated to staying at the forefront of outdoor learning advancements, and this month, we’re excited to share insights from two recent research studies expertly summarised by our research partner, Gemma Goldenberg (@phd_and_three). Let’s explore these findings.
- Speech and Language in Outdoor Settings
“Language use in indoor and outdoor settings among children in a nature-based preschool” (Novikova et al, 2023)
A recent study delved into the language use of preschool children in both indoor and outdoor environments. While the study was small (involving 16 children) and didn’t reach statistical significance on all measures, it yielded intriguing observations.
Key Findings:
- Increased Word Use: Children employed more words and made more utterances when outdoors compared to indoor settings.
- Enhanced Complexity: Dual language learners, in particular, demonstrated greater complexity in their speech and language outdoors, producing longer utterances.
These results contribute to existing research supporting the idea that outdoor environments play a pivotal role in fostering speech and language development among children.
Relevant Previous Studies:
- Forest school supports language and communication skills (Dajaba, 2022)
- Increased communication between children and parents outdoors (Cameron-Faulkner et al, 2018)
- Highest lexical diversity observed in outdoor nature settings (Richardson et al, 2017)
- Outdoor literacy activities boost engagement in speech for reluctant speakers (Hackett et al, 2021)
- Greater verbal engagement in outdoor nature settings compared to traditional playgrounds (Prins et al, 2023)
2. Stress Regulation and Brain Development in Forest Learning:
“Choice matters: Pupils’ stress regulation, brain development and brain function in an outdoor education project” (Dettweiler et al, 2023)
The second study explored the impact of spending one day each week learning in the forest on school children’s stress regulation, brain development, and responses to stress.
Key Findings:
- Reduced Cortisol Levels: Children participating in outdoor curriculum lessons once a week showed a greater reduction in cortisol levels throughout the day, indicating more efficient stress regulation.
- Physical Activity Connection: The study suggested that increased physical activity during outdoor learning contributed to the observed lower cortisol levels.
- Positive Brain Effects: Brain scans revealed that autonomy and choice in learning positively affected the maturation of the Anterior Cingulate Cortex, a crucial brain region.
The outcomes of these studies provide valuable insights into the multifaceted benefits of outdoor learning, from speech and language development to stress regulation and cognitive growth. As we continue to champion outdoor education, these findings underscore the importance of integrating nature into the learning experience for our young minds. Stay tuned for more updates on the evolving landscape of outdoor education at Teach Outdoors.
