Discover and Experience Outdoor Education. Junior Experience Information Packet.

Overview & Synopsis

This guide provides information about an 8-day outdoor education experience required for third-year teacher education majors at Northern Illinois University (NIU). The residential program is held at the Lorado Taft Field Campus of NIU. The guide addresses the values of outdoor education and the benefits for both teachers and students. General information concerning the residential experience is provided. Course objectives are: (1) to become more familiar with the concept of outdoor education; (2) to become acquainted with the Lorado Taft Field Campus and its resources; (3) to discover outdoor activities and teaching techniques; (4) to develop positive attitudes about the outdoors; (5) to get to know one's self and peer group; and (6) to gain an understanding of residential outdoor education. Participants choose from a curriculum consisting of experiences in natural resource identification, ecology, map and compass, environmental values, and other subject matters related to student interests. A sample outdoor education schedule and a list of activities are presented, including the study of trees, "color poetry," and bird study. Also included is a list of what students need to bring for the experience; conservation practices to maintain the natural habitat of Lorado Taft; and tasks to be completed by students before leaving the campus. (LP)