Learning with Nature – Package 1
In order to work with nature we need to re-awaken our skills and capacities that many custodians of the land around the world have maintained over time. There is a worldwide movement at the moment exploring nature that needs to be embedded into practice so that it is sustained. It is not enough to source bright ideas, as a profession we need to build on a foundation of values.
This series of 5 modules are all about developing higher order thinking through an inquiry learning approach within the context of the natural sciences.
This professional learning package is not available as a part of an ECA Learning Hub Annual Subscription.
Learning with nature – Package 1
In order to work with nature, we need to re-awaken follow the examples of various custodians of the land around the world and learn the skills that they have maintained over time. There is a worldwide nature movement by embedding nature pedagogy into daily practice. It is not enough to just source bright ideas. As a profession, we need to build on a foundation of values.
The five modules in this package are all about developing higher-order thinking using an inquiry-based learning approach within the context of natural sciences.
Completing a Learning with Nature package will contribute 5 hours of PD addressing standard 3 from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers.
This package maps to National Quality Standard Quality Area 1 and 3.
Learning with nature - Introduction to Nature Pedagogy
By Dr Claire Warden
This module is designed to provide a practical understanding of Nature Pedagogy. It is relevant for all early childhood education and care professionals who are interested in incorporating nature learning within their setting. This is an introductory module and does not need any prerequisite knowledge of the topic.
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- list the four fundamental elements that influence the way you work with children
- describe the four features of Nature Pedagogy and how you would consider these while creating your learning structure
- summarise the theory of loose parts and take practical steps to use them more effectively within your setting
- demonstrate the thinking behind play affordance and implement it with the children you care for and educate.
Learning with nature – Leaves
By Dr Claire Warden
To inspire and support children’s learning, this module explores different ways of incorporating leaves in nature-play experiences within early learning settings. This is an introductory module and does not need any pre-requisite knowledge of the topic.
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- discuss the potential use of leaves as a unique opportunity for integrated learning and development
- explain and justify the use of leaves in nature-based programs
- apply the 10 things you’ve learnt about leaves to improve the quality of your interaction with children.
Learning with nature – Light and shadow
By Dr Claire Warden
Light and shadow are an integral part of nature. This module is designed for early childhood professionals who are interested in helping young children in their setting explore the concepts of light and shadow. This is an introductory module and does not need any prerequisite knowledge of the topic.
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- outline the potential of light and shadow for playful inquiry
- explain the science of light and shadow and use it to support children’s learning experience
- apply the 10 things you’ve learnt about light and shadow to improve the quality of your interaction with children.
Learning with nature – Introduction to mud kitchens
By Dr Claire Warden
This module examines the principles behind the design of a mud kitchen. It also explains how you can give children empowerment and autonomy in their outdoor landscapes. Using videos, recorded conversations with children and real-life case studies, this module brings to life the benefits and learning opportunities of using a mud kitchen within your setting. This module is designed to help early childhood professionals integrate mud play into children’s learning. This is an introductory module and does not need any prerequisite knowledge of the topic.
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- describe how to create a mud kitchen to give children empowerment and autonomy in their outdoor landscapes
- demonstrate how to make landscapes work for children
- list the items you need in a mud kitchen
- create a mud kitchen for use within your setting.
Learning with nature – Wind
By Dr Claire Warden
Fifth in the ’Learning with nature’ series, this modules is apt for early childhood professionals who are interested in incorporating experiences and learning opportunities for children around the properties of air and wind. This is an introductory module and does not need any prerequisite knowledge of the topic.
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- understand how to teach children about the properties of air, specifically wind, to enhance their learning journeys
- explain and justify the inclusion of wind in nature-based programs
- apply the 10 things you’ve learnt about wind to improve the quality of your interaction with children.
