The term disadvantaged may refer to an individual or group who is at some form of social, economic or educational disadvantage. Researchers may define those young people as disadvantaged who have little or no family support, who are not familiar with a local language, who belong to an immigrant background or who have low personal resources such a no school qualifications. Some individuals from disadvantaged groups may struggle in the mainstream education system.
Research has shown that when outdoor learning is combined with more traditional learning methods, it can lead to a deeper level of knowledge and understanding of topics, than if either methods are used on their own. Much of the academic research that has been carried out suggests that when combining theoretical learning with real-world experiential learning, outdoor learning can help with learning skills such as improving academic achievement, supporting cross-curricular learning, as well as improving critical thinking Softer skills may also be developed, helping with problem-solving skills such as teamworking and leadership. Researchers who looked at farm-based learning found that low academic performers showed higher than average test results even five months after undertaking their farm-based learning sessions. This points to the hypothesis that such learning methods can have long term positive impacts and specifically, as previously mentioned, for those who struggle in mainstream education. Such individuals may have become disengaged with education and outdoor learning often provides opportunities to re-engage young people through learning in new ways; helping to create new roles and identities from those that have previously been established in the in the classroom.
To learn more about the project, you can read the full guidelines document by clicking HERE