At the Western International School of Shanghai (WISS), we believe that every child possesses untapped creativity that must be nurtured. In line with this philosophy, we offer a range of experiences that enable our students to make real-world connections and grow holistically. One essential element of our educational approach is outdoor learning, which we believe offers numerous academic, social, and emotional benefits to students in our Early Years, Primary, and Secondary programs. A highlight of our commitment to outdoor education is the annual celebration of Outdoor Classroom Day.
Outdoor Classroom Day at WISS
An integral part of our commitment to outdoor learning is the annual celebration of Outdoor Classroom Day. This special day on our school calendar is dedicated to engaging students in hands-on outdoor activities that promote learning, creativity, and environmental awareness. On this day, our students partake in a wide range of activities specially designed to encourage exploration, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. From nature walks and scavenger hunts to art projects inspired by the natural surroundings, Outdoor Classroom Day offers a unique opportunity for students to connect with their environment in a meaningful way.
Academic Benefits
Outdoor learning experiences go beyond traditional classroom settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical manner. Research has shown that outdoor education improves academic performance by enhancing memory retention, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities. When students engage with the natural world, they develop a deeper understanding of scientific concepts, build vocabulary, and improve their reading comprehension through firsthand experiences. Moreover, outdoor learning promotes interdisciplinary learning, as students connect concepts across subjects, fostering a holistic approach to education.
Building Independence, Creativity, and Innovation
The outdoor environment provides a unique space for students to develop independent thinking, creativity, and innovation. At WISS, we encourage our students to explore nature’s mysteries and stimulate their imagination through outdoor activities. By venturing outside the classroom, students learn to embrace a world with no set rules, allowing them to climb trees, jump in muddy puddles, get their hands dirty, or even cook in a mud kitchen. Such experiences foster risk-taking, problem-solving, and adaptability, empowering students to become confident, self-reliant learners.
Experiential Interactions and Real-Life Connections
At WISS, we understand the importance of hands-on, inquiry-based learning. By combining outdoor learning with classroom time, we enhance creativity and make natural connections between environments and learning. Through practical experiences, students acquire knowledge of the world, develop effective communication skills, hone critical thinking abilities, and master self-management skills. Whether it’s conducting experiments in the school garden, observing local flora and fauna, or participating in team-building activities, our students exercise, learn, and have fun while gaining authentic real-life experiences.
Social and Emotional Benefits
Outdoor learning also nurtures students’ social and emotional well-being. By experiencing the freedom of the outdoors, students develop resilience, self-confidence, empathy, and cooperation. Collaborative outdoor activities foster teamwork and communication skills, while exposure to nature reduces stress and increases overall mental well-being. The sense of wonder and curiosity that outdoor learning instills helps students develop a lifelong appreciation for the environment and a desire to become responsible global citizens.
At the Western International School of Shanghai, we recognize the invaluable role of outdoor learning in shaping well-rounded individuals. Through our commitment to providing opportunities for outdoor exploration, we empower our students to become independent thinkers, creative problem solvers, and environmentally conscious individuals. The celebration of Outdoor Classroom Day epitomizes our dedication to fostering academic, social, and emotional growth through immersive outdoor experiences. By embracing outdoor learning, we prepare our students for success in a rapidly changing world, while instilling a lifelong love for learning and the environment.
Contributed by: Peter. J Bezuidenhout (Director of Admissions and Marketing at the Western International School of Shanghai)
