Our Learning Process and Directions Forward

We had a very productive second KBC and from it a lot of important issues were identified to direct our future learning activity.  The KBC really demonstrated the power of group knowledge building since the results we got were more than anyone one of us could generate.

The analysis of that KBC is posted below.


Cheers,

Stan

Insights and directions from KBC #2

KBC Question -In our evolving outdoor centre roles, are we focusing our energies on teachers who attend(educator leadership/support) or on students  who attend(OE service delivery)?

-see photos for transcript of this group discourse

Overall Positions/Direction

-we are here first for the well-being and learning of students -our focus is on strategies and practices from outdoor education as one part of the system of learning tools needed to address student learning needs -our work is in the context of an interrelated and consistent system of learning strategies

-in supporting board goals of modern learning, math and mental health -the learning strategies associated with OE ed and others related to it are not an option but a necessity of every child's learning experience

Communication

-we need to communicate this message to all of our relationships

Our Relationships

Students -the message -here is a outdoor world that is available to you, let’s learn to explore it together- and then take it where you want and need to go

Teachers - 1 as practitioners -we are here to learn with you to enhance your practice and our practice -let’s learn together on your next OE centre visit

2. As Capacity builders -we are here to support you in your role of transformative learner bringing about change in your school and beyond

Parents

1. You recognize the value of the learning experiences you see at the OE centres and want more of that  for your family -here are some resource for you to pursue
2. Change agents -capacity builders -you have the interest and energy to work in your school community and beyond so that every child gets these experiences -here are some tools and some connections to others with similar interests

School Admin/senior admin -we need you to know why centres exist in the context of the big modern learning goals and we need you to support this at the school and system level -you can support the culture of trust we need in order to innovate, be creative and take risks to meet the challenges of the modern learning mandate

Our Roles as OE staff -no order specified after number 1

1. We direct our practice to students to help them become who they want and can be -we listen to them in many ways in order to meet this role

2. We demonstrate to educators (visiting and ourselves) good OE learning strategy and  practices so that teachers can take these back and apply them and evolve their practice

3. We identify and work with  those teachers, parents and administrators who will enhance capacity for change in meeting our goals

4. We will work to identify misconceptions about OE practice, the role of centres and learning for ourselves and for others

5. We will refine and build on the understanding of what OE centres can and should offer/do and what schools cannot to help prioritize our activities

6. We will develop relationships in order to build trust and work together.  Listening is an essential component of that.

7. The position of Outdoor and Environmental Ed consultant brings opportunities and energy to our mandate.  We will collaborate in helping to define how this person can support us and relevant others in applying OE