Every week we host several groups from different countries in Europe. Every Wednesday afternoon, we organize an outdoor activity that connects three key topics in a distinctive way
This title emphasizes the outdoor experience as a moment of shared growth between students and teachers. Three key elements are highlighted:
- Emotions, representing the personal and relational engagement fostered by being outdoors and interacting with others;
- Nature, which offers an authentic space for well-being, exploration, and connection with the environment;
- GoGoals, is a board game to be played indoors or outdoors to learn about the Sustainable Development Goals defined by the United Nations in 2015 to be reached by 2030.
The experience promotes active and participatory learning, where play, sustainability, and relationships come together to foster skills, awareness, and a spirit of cooperation.
Emotions: The Personal and Relational Involvement Experienced Outdoors
When we engage in activities outdoors, emotions come to the forefront in a unique way. The outdoor setting encourages a more profound connection between people and their surroundings. Students and teachers alike often feel a sense of freedom and openness that isn’t typically present in a classroom. The natural world invites spontaneous interactions, fostering emotional bonds and mutual understanding. The experience of being in nature can evoke feelings of joy, calm, wonder, and even challenge, all of which contribute to personal growth and collective bonding. In essence, the outdoor environment allows for deeper emotional engagement, where personal feelings and group dynamics evolve more naturally.
Nature: The Natural Environment That Fosters Well-Being and Connection with the Surroundings
Nature has an incredible power to nurture both physical and mental well-being. Being outdoors allows individuals to disconnect from daily stresses and reconnect with the earth. It provides a sensory experience that enhances mindfulness, reduces anxiety, and promotes a sense of peace. For students, nature is also a dynamic classroom, where they can directly experience ecological principles, observe biodiversity, and feel the rhythms of life. Nature encourages creativity, problem-solving, and resilience, offering countless opportunities for exploration. This deep connection with the natural world strengthens students’ appreciation for the environment and fosters sustainable behaviors, aligning perfectly with the goals of environmental education.
GoGoals: The Educational Game Related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
GoGoals is a board game to be played indoors or outdoors to learn about the Sustainable Development Goals defined by the United Nations in 2015 to be reached by 2030. Through this game, students can explore global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and education, learning about the importance of each SDG in a fun and interactive way. The game promotes critical thinking, cooperation, and problem-solving skills, encouraging players to think globally while acting locally. It also empowers students by showing them how their actions, no matter how small, can contribute to positive change in the world. GoGoals is a tool that not only enhances knowledge of sustainability but also inspires action and accountability toward achieving a better future for all.
These three elements—Emotions, Nature, and GoGoals—combine to create a holistic learning experience that integrates emotional, environmental, and educational growth. The outdoor environment acts as a catalyst for this experience, allowing students and teachers to engage with each other, the world around them, and the important global challenges we face.
Author: Enza Procopio (JUMP Team)
