EDST 498R: Learning Outside the Classroom: Exploring the Curriculum in Natural Settings

July 2 – July 19 (Tuesday to friday )   |    9:00 A.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Format: In-Person


Students will explore the possibilities of learning curriculum areas through on-campus field studies and visits to nearby parks and wetlands.  Studies include curricular concepts that foster nature-based learning such as forest schools, outdoor classrooms, learning gardens, and the walking curriculum.

1. Demonstrate proficiency in integrating nature-based learning strategies into existing curricula.

2. Develop a deep understanding of the cognitive, emotional, and physical benefits associated with nature-based education.

3. Design and implement effective outdoor lessons that align with the provincial curriculum and enhance student engagement.

4. Evaluate and select appropriate resources, tools, and technologies for enhancing outdoor learning experiences.

5. Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment outdoors, catering to diverse student needs and learning styles.

6. Acquire knowledge on safety protocols and risk management strategies for conducting outdoor activities with students.

7. Explore methods for assessing and documenting student progress and achievements in the context of outdoor education.

8. Reflect on personal teaching practices and philosophy, considering the integration of nature-based education for continuous professional development.
9. Collaborate with colleagues to share best practices, challenges, and successes related to implementing nature-based learning.

Dr. Robert Campbell

After teaching secondary art and working in the private sector as an art director and instructional designer, Dr. Campbell completed his academic work at OISE. Currently, he teaches visual arts and STEAM education. His current research focuses on creative coding and robotics.

How to register

To register for courses, please visit the Student Service Centre (SSC).

Register for Term two (July/August) courses via the Student Service Centre (SSC). If you intend on taking a 400-level course, please ensure that you receive prior approval by your graduate supervisor using this form.

If you are looking to transfer a course into UBC Vancouver, or another institution, please confirm transfer credit will be approved prior to registering for a UBC Okanagan course.

*It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the course is accepted towards the completion of a program.

Register for Term two (July/August) courses via the Student Service Centre (SSC). You must have current Summer registration eligibility. If not, please email sie.education@ubc.ca.

If you are looking to transfer a course into UBC Vancouver, or another institution, please confirm approval of transfer credit prior to registration.

*It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the course is accepted towards the completion of a program.

To register for a course, you will first need to submit an online application via Education Planner BC portal

  • Sign up for your EducationPlannerBC Account and follow the instructions to complete your applicant profile.
  • Select University of British Columbia as the institution you want to apply to
  • Select the upcoming Winter Session: September – December
  • Select “Access Studies”
  • Under “Access Studies” section, indicate that your program of interest is the Okanagan School of Education’s Summer Institute in Education Summer Session May – August.
  • Once all necessary fields are filled in, click the “Save” button at the bottom of the page.
  • You will be prompted to review your EPBC application and pay an application fee.

Once you have paid the application fee, email nondegree.ok@ubc.ca if you want UBC to process it quicker. If not, it will take three to five business days for UBC to admit you.

Please contact sie.education@ubc.ca with your UBC student number and courses of interest.