Peer-reviewed research2017–2026 update
The Participation of Teachers in Greece in Outdoor Education Activities and the Schools’ Perceptions of the Benefits to Students
Few teachers in Greece take students outdoors, even though they see clear mental, cognitive and physical benefits.
What's new
The study investigated how far teachers in Greek schools for students aged 6–18 offer outdoor activities. It also examined what benefits they perceived, from their own experience and that of colleagues. The share of teachers choosing outdoor activities was fairly low. Teachers still identified significant benefits, and the authors found a positive link between student participation and perceived mental, cognitive and physical benefits. They call for supporting teachers and building learning communities to increase outdoor learning.
Why it matters in Aotearoa
The gap between teachers valuing outdoor learning and actually doing it is familiar in Aotearoa. The study points to teacher support and professional communities as ways forward.
Putting it into practice
Set up a small professional learning group in your school where teachers plan and share outdoor lessons, so that those less confident have peer support.
How strong is the evidence
The study is based on teacher perceptions, and the abstract does not give the sample size or data collection method. Benefits were perceived and were not measured in students.
What to read
The results on participation rates and perceived benefits