Outdoor Education in Michigan Schools.

Overview & Synopsis

Since outdoor education has already become an integral part of the curriculum of schools in Michigan, this booklet has been prepared both to assist schools planning to initiate outdoor education programs and to recommend improvements in existing programs. Included in the document are the history and development of outdoor education; the basic philosophy and concept of outdoor education; descriptions of Michigan's programs in terms of outdoor-related classroom experiences, use of the school site and other outdoor areas as laboratories, resident outdoor schools, outdoor skills and sports, innovative programs, and teacher education and leadership preparation. Guidelines are presented for planning an outdoor education program and keeping it as an extension of the school curriculum to meet the school's objectives. The study points out that the evaluation of outdoor education should be consistent with, and a part of, the general evaluation procedures for the school. In conclusion, a suggested reference list and samples of program evaluation forms are included. (EL)