Abstract:

In recent years, there has been a burgeoning interest in the interdisciplinary educational approach known as Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts/Humanities, and Mathematics (STEAM). This trend is grounded in the demonstrably positive impact this approach has on children and young people's attitudes and learning outcomes, as well as the imperative to foster their curiosity and engagement with the content encompassed by these academic domains. Recognizing this imperative, scholarly literature emphasizes the development of interdisciplinary pedagogical strategies, beginning from the earliest stages of education, anchored in pertinent social and cultural contexts. Outdoor environments and natural settings assume particular significance in this educational paradigm, providing a rich backdrop for outdoor learning experiences. These settings facilitate exploration, inquiry, observation, debate, manipulation, and a reconnection with the natural world through sensory engagement. There is a vast body of evidence that shows the beneficial effects of outdoor education on students' academic achievement in science, critical thinking skills, enthusiasm for learning, and intrinsic motivation. Furthermore, exposure to nature confers physical and psychological well-being benefits. Consequently, the immersive and experiential nature of outdoor education is anticipated to foster students' holistic development and welfare while fostering a meaningful connection to STEAM subjects. By enhancing students' interest and involvement in these activities, outdoor education holds promise for cultivating a deeper appreciation and engagement with STEAM learning.

To achieve this goal, a questionnaire was distributed among a selection of schools in a Portuguese city, aiming to elucidate how educators utilize outdoor spaces within their school premises. Regarding the educational opportunities afforded by these outdoor environments, a majority of teachers express agreement that conducting activities in such spaces promotes the development of diverse skills, facilitates interdisciplinary and collaborative endeavours, nurtures inclusive learning environments, encourages interaction with nature, and engages students sensorially, thereby fostering their holistic development. While acknowledging the benefits of interdisciplinary activities, most respondents highlight constraints in their implementation, citing the rigidity and length of the curriculum framework, the imperative for teacher training, the lack of time for collaborative planning, and the inadequacy of available materials and resources. Concerning STEAM activities in outdoor settings, the majority of respondents recognize the value of such initiatives and express readiness to participate in associated training programs.

Keywords:

Outdoor education, STEAM approach, Teacher training.