LEARNING BY LIVING: EXPERIENTIAL PATHWAYS IN NATURE-BASED EDUCATION

Abstract

In modern pedagogy, experiential learning and nature-based education are revolutionary methods that prioritize hands-on involvement, practical experiences, and environmental immersion. The main goal of experiential learning is to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities through reflection on doing. An essential part of experiential learning, nature-based education fosters ecological literacy, emotional health, and a sense of environmental responsibility by bringing students into contact with natural settings. Through active participation in activities like project-based learning, outdoor exploration, and community engagement, this educational synergy enables students to investigate ideas, resulting in a deeper comprehension and personal development. While tackling contemporary issues like climate change and sustainability, including environment into curricula fosters creativity, resilience, and mindfulness. Students who participate in nature-based experiential learning exhibit better physical health, stronger social-emotional abilities, and increased academic achievement, according to research. Additionally, this paradigm encourages interdisciplinary education by fusing geography, science, art, and ethics in relevant ways. Experiential and nature-based learning approaches offer a comprehensive framework for producing responsible, compassionate global citizens as education moves from passive knowledge consumption to active knowledge creation. In order to emphasize the importance of these methods in establishing a sustainable and learner-centered future, this abstract examines the educational underpinnings, advantages, and difficulties of putting them into practice.