Learning outdoors or with a computer: the contribution of the learning setting to learning and to environmental perceptions |
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| Authors: | Ester Aflalo Revital Montin Ayala Raviv |
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| Institution: | 1. Science department, Hemdat Hadarom College of Education, Netivot, Israelester@hemdat.ac.il;3. Science department, Hemdat Hadarom College of Education, Netivot, Israel |
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| Abstract: | ABSTRACTBackground: Outdoor learning and computer-based learning are two different alternatives to in-class conventional teacher-centered learning.Purpose: This study compares the outdoor learning setting with computer-based learning in class. It examines the influence of the two different learning settings on academic achievements, the learning experience, and pro-environmental perceptions.Sample: A total of 90 elementary school students (third and fourth-grade classes) participated in the study.Design and methods: The academic knowledge of the study participants was tested through identical exams for both learning settings. In addition, in each group the students’ perceptions were examined by means of a questionnaire about environmental values and the learning experience.Results: The study demonstrates that academic achievements in the two settings were similar, but the students expressed more enthusiasm about the outdoor learning experience than about in-class learning. In addition, the outdoor learning setting contributed more to promoting positive environmental perceptions even though students did not learn directly about environmental issues and sustainability.Conclusions: These findings suggest that learning in the natural environment is valuable: Alongside the fostering of computerized learning, it is also important to promoteoutdoor learning settings and integrate both settings by implementing mobile technologies in the outdoor teaching. |
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| Keywords: | Outdoor learning computer setting learning experience environmental perceptions |
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