Prairie View Elementary : designing a learning landscape

Abstract

This creative project has explored the numerous potential benefi ts of utilizing the schoolyard and designing it as an outdoor learning environment. Traditionally school systems have taught course material in an almost exclusive indoor environment, although for various reasons, as this project points out, the course material may have more of an impact when presented in an outdoor setting. This project will examine learning theories that support active learning, exploration and play in an outdoor setting. In addition, ways in which the surrounding community can benefit by engaging in the outdoor learning environment will be examined. Selected methods of designing learning landscapes have been studied and analyzed in order to gain an understanding of how to apply the information to the design of an outdoor learning environment at an elementary school. Observation and analysis of existing learning landscapes and interview/survey of school leaders and teachers have been conducted in order to collect primary data. Evaluations of case studies and information from books, web sites and journal articles have been used in the collection of secondary data. Site specific data will be gained through GIS data, aerial photography and site visits. The second phase of this project was to apply the research findings in the design of an outdoor learning environment at a school. The selected school is Prairie View Elementary in Goshen, Indiana. This school has an opportunity to become a model of utilizing the outdoor environment in order to enhance student exploration, discovery, learning and mental and physical well being and engage the surrounding community. The overarching goal for the learning landscape of Prairie View Elementary will be to engage the students in a fresh and exciting way allowing them to experience and enjoy course material first hand and continue this enjoyment of the natural environment into their adult lives.