There are many lessons that can be learned by working outside. So far in the Wright Fellowship program we have not ventured outside to learn. The field trip to the museum was our only trip outside of a classroom. However, we still remained in the safety of a roof and four walls. Today was different. Today we braved the wild, torrents of the raging Lindsey Creek. I believe the opportunity for service learning changed the way I view our class. I would like to have my students benefit from the same changes in perspective I experienced.
Teacher: From Ivory Tower Dr.Wappett to Approachable Dude in Toby Keith Hat
I would like my students to view me as I saw Matt today. Matt was not the director of all activity. He was a co-miserator, learner, one source of knowledge, and most importantly just a human getting dirty. The experience we had today was a more realistic way for learning than I think school offers. I could better balance and validate school learning by facilitating outdoor service learning. Getting dirty and learning alongside my students will make me seem more human in their eyes.
Lessons and Skills: Being in the Real World and Teaching Something That Matters
When we went outside, we acknowledged that life and learning exists away from classrooms. If we are able to connect our classrooms to service learning projects, then we make a stronger case for our students to be life learners. I found many opportunities today to connect lessons I have covered in the past, to places and activities that matter more to my students. I write as a joke that pollution, water quality, plant and animal life are not just in books J; they actually exist in the world. But, many of the times in my classroom, I approach teaching about these things only from the standpoint of text and pictures on the page or computer screen.
Belonging: Building Community
As we learned today, we can make some difference in our world. The fierce rapids of Lindsey Creek gave us a place to serve at and make better. I know I will probably bore my wife and kids with a recollection of our work, each time we pass by our work site. If it can build the sense of belonging and accomplishment in a cynical adult like me, then the affect on children would be amazing. My classroom could help make a better world, learn about one another on a new level, connect class lessons to nature, and gain the satisfaction of service.
Well said Beau. I also like the idea of experiencing new and maybe uncomfortable experiences with my students. The trust and respect that you can gain from your students is immeasurable. We used to do a great overnight field trip in the mountains with our sixth graders. They look at you with an all new and genuine respect when you share yourself in this unfamiliar setting. Best of all, the time spent in the mountains exploring and team building is something that they talk about for years.
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