Abstract:

Vilnius University Botanical Garden serves as a crucial setting for immersive outdoor nonformal learning experiences in the realm of natural science education. This study explores the unique educational environment provided by the largest botanical garden in Lithuania, encompassing diverse plant species and attracting around 140 thousand visitors annually. With a focus on sensory engagement, educational programs, and thematic excursions have been developed for the 2023 summer season, accommodating visitors of all ages, particularly those from preschool and primary education institutions.

Drawing inspiration from Murray's emphasis on sensory information as the foundation of our connection to the external world (1), the programs integrate innovative approaches. Participants undertake blindfolded exercises to explore woody plants through touch, sound, and smell, fostering a deeper understanding of their surroundings. The significance of colors in nature is explored through visual aesthetics, with collected materials utilized for creative endeavors such as sand collages.

The auditory dimension is addressed through the exploration of aquatic habitats within the garden's 17 ponds and streams. Students experience the dynamic nature of water, and household waste is repurposed to create sound-emitting instruments, instilling environmental awareness.

Olfactory and gustatory experiences are integrated, focusing on the identification of edible and inedible plants. Students engage in the growth process, from soil preparation to observing changes in leaves, flowers, fruits. Taste and smell tests featuring of berry plants: cranberries, lingonberries, gooseberries, rowans, sheepberries and others enhance the learning experience.

Collaborating with the Lithuanian non-formal education agency (LINEŠA), the Botanical Garden spearheads the "My Green Window" project. This initiative engages educational institutions in an annual competition, promoting themes such as "Colors of Plants" and "Plants and Architecture," fostering responsibility and appreciation for plant care.

To further enhance physical and mental development, the garden offers orientation games utilizing its hilly terrain, yew maze, and barefoot path. Visitors actively engage in orienteering activities, honing concentration, movement skills, and self-esteem, while also creating maps of the garden to locate specific plant species.

In summary, Vilnius University Botanical Garden provides a dynamic and inclusive platform for experiential nonformal learning in natural science education. The integration of sensory exploration, creative expression, and physical activity establishes the garden as a unique and invaluable resource for holistic learning experiences.

References:
[1] University of Washington, Website. Accessed 19 November, 2023. Retrieved from https://faculty.washington.edu/chudler/twopt.html.

Keywords:

Experiential, sensorial, outdoor learning, natural science, physical activities.