By Zach Jensen,
Decorah’s fourth grade students took a walk on the wild side last week during the School of the Wild — a program developed by the University of Iowa’s College of Education to provide students with meaningful outdoor learning experiences which develop a sense of awareness and appreciation for the natural world.
“Today, many students spend less time outdoors than we did years ago, largely due to the increased amount of screen time,” said Decorah Community Schools Associate Elementary Principal Dana Bockman. “I remember being outdoors from dawn to dusk until mom yelled that it was time to come home. Programs like School of the Wild help students explore and interact with their surroundings, fostering a lifelong love of nature.”
From Sept 23 through Sept. 26 Decorah fourth grade students were offered learning opportunities at Dunning’s Spring, Ice Cave, Van Peenan Park and the Decorah Community Prairie. Lessons at each location were led by fourth-grade teachers, Winneshiek County Conservation staff and local experts.
“One of the key benefits of this program is that it promotes high levels of student engagement,” Bockman said. “By taking learning outdoors and offering hands-on activities, our students are more likely to connect with the learning. Studies show that active learning in natural settings has a positive effect on mental health, reducing stress and increasing overall well-being.”
Students learned about topics such as fossils and rocks, types of stone and testing, erosion and flood damage, karst topography, the Decorah crater, prehistoric animals, shelter-building, geologic layers, geocaching and prairie plants as well as how to use a compass and map.
“The School of the Wild program encourages teamwork and collaboration as students work together in small groups, enhancing their social skills and building friendships,” Bockman said. “They also gain an appreciation for the diversity of life in our local ecosystems, learning how different species interact and depend on one another. We hope to inspire future generations to be informed and engaged stewards of our planet.”
Bockman said anytime teachers can make education interactive, authentic and engaging, it’s a win-win for education.
“We know these three things have a huge impact on student learning and retention,” she said. “So, whenever possible, we immerse students in learning outside the classroom. Learning within their community environment will be incredibly meaningful for the students.”
The week’s outdoor curriculum will also provide many opportunities for problem-solving and critical thinking — skills Bockman said are essential not just in school, but in daily life and the students’ future careers.
“For many people, being outdoors can be stress-reducing, mood-improving and beneficial for mental health,” she said. “I hope our students see the value in just being in nature.”
The associate principal added that, without the school’s fourth-grade teachers, the School of the Wild wouldn’t be possible.
“Carrie Lee’s fourth grade team worked incredibly hard to plan for this week, including locating funding, securing necessary supplies and instructors and preparing students for the week-long event,” Bockman said. “This included attending training over the summer and working closely with Winneshiek County Conservation and other area agencies. I commend them for the time and effort they have put into providing this opportunity for our students. This would not be happening without their hard work and dedication.”
More photos can be found in the September 26 Decorah Leader.
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