STEM Hour | Bush kinder: STEM learning in nature

Join this thought-provoking exploration of the benefits of STEM learning through the bush kinder model, which is embraced in countries globally. Nature play or bush kinder allows children to do what they do best — run, climb trees, play in puddles, jump off rocks, balance on logs, build, and explore — and has been shown to reduce stress, improve behaviour and concentration, and develop healthy learning dispositions.

Our expert guest Dr Chris Speldewinde has conducted extensive research into STEM through the bush kinder model. Dr Speldewinde will take us through his research that explores:

• How to nurture children's love of STEM learning through play in the natural environment.
• How bush kinder can develop fundamental STEM skills like critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and communication.
• That pre-school aged children who participate in bush kinder programs may have better education outcomes than those who stay indoors. 
• The power of outdoors play to support the STEM engagement and education outcomes of girls in particular.
• The benefits of introducing bush kinder into your program, practical ideas for implementation no matter where you are located, and strategies to overcome barriers and challenges.

Dr Speldewinde holds a Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Primary), is a Doctor of Philosophy, and is currently a lecturer in education at Melbourne University. 

This STEM Hour is held on Thursday 2 November in these timezones: 

5-6pm (AEDT), 2-3pm (AWST), 4.30-5.30pm (ACDT) 

Purchasing a ticket allows you to tune in live and also access a recording to watch in your own time.