Gardens become outdoor classrooms and students learn science and math in practice in RR
A project in Roraima, Brazil, is implementing school gardens to promote healthy eating and hands-on education in subjects like science and math.
In Roraima, Brazil, a unique initiative called Sustainable Education is transforming school gardens into outdoor classrooms, enhancing the educational experience for students. Launched in 2024, the project aims to stimulate healthy eating habits among students while reinforcing classroom content through practical lessons. Currently, the program has been introduced in 30 urban state schools and five indigenous rural schools, providing a holistic approach to learning.
The project focuses on various educational themes, such as life cycles, soil types, and measurement calculations, making learning more engaging and applicable for students. According to Naiva Lima, the head of Environmental Education at the State Education and Sports Department (Seed), the gardens not only support school meals but also enrich the curriculum by covering multiple learning objectives across different subjects. This hands-on approach to education allows students to experience firsthand the concepts they learn in the classroom, thereby deepening their understanding and interest.
Moreover, this initiative reflects a growing trend in education, where outdoor learning is being recognized as an effective way to teach. By integrating real-world applications into the curriculum, the project ultimately helps students develop essential skills for their future. As schools continue to evolve to meet the needs of students, the incorporation of outdoor spaces as learning environments presents an innovative way to blend education with nature, fostering both academic and personal growth among learners.