Place-Based Learning In Early Childhood Education

This week, my doctoral studies have led to me learning about "Place-Based Learning".  This model of learning is defined by Promise of Place (n. d.) as a practice in which students learn by leaving the classroom to discover local heritage, cultures, landscapes, opportunities and experiences.  This would be an ideal supplement to play based learning in early childhood education.  

To anyone involved in early childhood education, it is no mystery that children learn best through hands on interactive activities. Place based learning allows children to be immersed in the concept in which they are learning, thereby making learning much more expedient, as well as more personal for the learners.  Educators can easily personalize learning through such an approach.  As children find interests around them, teachable moments and child centered, though directed, learning follows suit.  

Sly (2015) shared, "There is a growing body of research on the benefits of place-based learning. Among them: higher test scores, better grade-point averages, improved classroom behavior, increased self-esteem and problem-solving abilities, and higher-level thinking skills" (para 6).  

Indeed, many educational institutions see the value in place based education, including Antoich University - New England.  In their Department of Education, the concept is taught as a core concept as opposed to traditional classroom models. Antoich University (n. d.) explained, "Children get excited about learning when they can see the connection between what they study and their own lives" (para 1).

What are your thoughts about place based learning in early childhood?  Is it a viable option for early childhood learning or do you feel it is more appropriate for middle childhood, adolescents, and teens?

References

Antioch Univeristy. (n.d.). Place - based education. Retrieved November 11, 2015, from www.antiochne.edu/teacher-education/integrated-learning/placed-based-education/

Promise of Place. (n.d.). What is PBE | Promise of place. Retrieved from http://www.promiseofplace.org/what_is_pbe

Sly, C. (2015, August 7). Teaching strategies | ecoliteracy.org. Retrieved from http://www.ecoliteracy.org/article/teaching-strategies

Sustainable Schools Project. [Image]. Retrieved from http://sustainableschoolsproject.org/education/k-5-scope

The Mavins Group. (n.d.). Children playing in the woods with grandma [Photograph]. Retrieved from http://www.themavinsgroup.com/2012/08/a-walk-in-the-woods-with-grandchildren/