While Outdoor Ed classes have been around for decades, their existence remains unknown to millions of Americans. And among those who are aware of them, some common misconceptions prevent Outdoor Ed classes from gaining their full support. For example:
“Outdoor Ed classes are just ‘blow off’ classes.”
“Kids don’t need to learn the stuff they teach in Outdoor Ed.”
“Kids aren’t interested in learning that stuff. They only care about technology.”
“Given our economy, we should spend our money on more important subjects like science and technology.”
If you’re already a supporter of Outdoor Ed classes, you probably heard complaints like these and recognize how wrong they are. But how do you combat them? How do you communicate the importance, the relevance, and the value of Outdoor Ed classes?
Perhaps the best way is to listen to those who know the value of Outdoor Ed classes as well as anyone. The teachers who teach it every day.
We’ve interviewed many Outdoor Ed teachers and school administrators and asked them to address some of these issues. Their answers are provided in the sidebar of this page.
We’re confident these short video clips will provide valuable information and insight that will strengthen your ability to promote Outdoor Education classes. And we encourage you to share them with others to help them hear first-hand why Outdoor Education classes matter. Now, more than ever.
