
Outdoor Investigation Toolkit
Access step-by-step guides for conducting field-based scientific investigations, including tips for data collection, analysis, and connecting observations to key science concepts.

Interactive Experiment Planner
Design outdoor experiments tailored to your curriculum with a downloadable PDF template.

Assessing Outdoor Learning
Explore methods for assessing students engaged in outdoor learning through demonstrations of science experiments, highlighting the practical applications of outdoor education in science.
About the Course
Immerse your students in the wonders of science through outdoor learning. This course focuses on empowering educators to leverage natural settings for hands-on, inquiry-based scientific exploration, fostering critical thinking and environmental stewardship. Learn to design engaging outdoor science experiments aligned with curriculum standards and build critical thinking skills through interactive learning experiences.
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Meet Your Instructor
Luke Parker Luke Parker is an award-winning educator, researcher, and leader specializing in outdoor learning and artificial intelligence in education. With a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Kansas, Luke has explored the role of outdoor learning in U.S. education, including the first nationwide study of its implementation and impact. Luke's professional journey began in Australian schools, where he combined his expertise in outdoor education and teaching. As an Education Officer for Outdoors Victoria since 2017, Luke spearheaded the development of over 30 teacher toolkits, equipping educators with strategies to integrate outdoor learning across curricula. His work has been instrumental in showcasing how outdoor environments can enrich learning in diverse subjects, from health and physical education to humanities and technologies.
Curriculum
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1
Introduction to Outdoor Science Education
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(Included in full purchase)
Module Three - Outdoor Learning and Science
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(Included in full purchase)
Introductory Survey
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(Included in full purchase)
Outdoor Learning and Science Education
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(Included in full purchase)
Outdoor Learning Science Activities
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(Included in full purchase)
Discussion Board Collaboration
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(Included in full purchase)
Outdoor Learning Curriculum
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(Included in full purchase)
Starting Small (Choose Primary or Secondary)
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(Included in full purchase)
Design Your Own Activity
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(Included in full purchase)
Assessing Outdoor Learning in Science
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(Included in full purchase)
Outdoor Learning in Science Assessment
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(Included in full purchase)
Comprehension Check (Pre and Post)
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(Included in full purchase)
Final Quiz to Pass Module
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(Included in full purchase)
Outdoors Victoria Professional Development Modules
Throughout 2024 and 2025, Outdoors Victoria will release 15 professional development modules designed to empower educators with practical tools and strategies to integrate outdoor learning across the curriculum. These modules are updated annually to ensure relevance and alignment with the evolving needs of school teachers. Module Highlights: Introduction to Outdoor Learning Explore the principles, benefits, and applications of outdoor learning across diverse educational settings. Geography and Outdoor Learning Learn strategies for teaching geographical skills, location identification, and data collection through outdoor experiences. Science and Outdoor Learning Enhance scientific understanding through outdoor experiments, observations, and field-based activities. Mathematics and Outdoor Learning Connect mathematical concepts to real-world applications using outdoor activities. English and Outdoor Learning Foster language skills with nature journaling, environmental debates, and outdoor storytelling. History and Outdoor Learning Engage with historical narratives and contexts by utilizing outdoor environments as interactive learning spaces. Health and Physical Education (Parts 1 & 2) Promote physical activity and well-being through outdoor games, sports, and risk-taking in safe settings. The Arts and Outdoor Learning Inspire creativity through outdoor art, music, dance, and drama projects. Languages and Outdoor Learning Support language acquisition with immersive, context-based activities in outdoor settings. Technologies and Outdoor Learning Leverage technology, such as geocaching and augmented reality, to enrich outdoor learning experiences. Music Education and Outdoor Learning Use natural soundscapes and outdoor musical activities to ignite creativity and expression. Humanities and Outdoor Learning Explore civics, economics, and business concepts through engaging outdoor projects. Intercultural and Ethical Capabilities Foster cultural understanding and ethical reasoning with outdoor activities that highlight diverse perspectives. Personal, Social, Critical, and Creative Thinking Build resilience, empathy, and problem-solving skills through collaborative outdoor challenges. Cross-Curriculum Priorities Integrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures into outdoor learning programs. These modules are designed to enhance student engagement, deepen learning, and provide educators with innovative approaches to teaching. Stay tuned for the release of each module and join the journey to transform your teaching practices through outdoor learning.

Acknowledgment
We sincerely thank the Department of Education and the Strategic Partnerships Program (SPP) for their generous support in making this program possible. Their commitment to professional development and inclusive education has allowed us to create and deliver these modules, equipping educators with the tools to foster meaningful outdoor learning experiences. This initiative would not have been possible without the backing of the Department and the SPP, and we are proud to collaborate in empowering teachers to make a lasting impact in their classrooms.
Ready to Dive into Outdoor Science?
Transform any outdoor space into a dynamic science classroom. Enroll now to start your journey towards engaging outdoor science education.