Peer-reviewed research2017–2026 update
Barriers and Strategies for Utilizing School Outdoor Spaces: Exploring the Experiences of High School Teachers in the Southeastern U.S.
A survey of 154 high school teachers found that their barriers to using school outdoor spaces differ from those reported in earlier studies, which have mostly focused on K-8 teachers.
What's new
This study used an online survey to explore the barriers 154 high school teachers face when using their schools' outdoor spaces, and the strategies they use to overcome them. K-8 teachers' perceptions of barriers have been well explored, but high school teachers' perceptions have not. The results showed that high school teachers' barriers differed from those in previous studies, and those differences could affect how the barriers are overcome.
Why it matters in Aotearoa
EOTC in secondary schools faces pressures that primary settings do not. Knowing what holds secondary teachers back from using school grounds can help schools in Aotearoa design better support.
Putting it into practice
Secondary EOTC coordinators can survey their own staff about what stops them teaching in the school grounds and what has worked for them. They can then share those strategies across departments.
How strong is the evidence
This is a single online survey of 154 high school teachers. It reports self-reported perceptions. The abstract does not state the location or detail the specific barriers or strategies.
What to read
The results and discussion sections setting out specific barriers and teacher strategies.