It's Time for Science Podcast Episode 20: Outdoor Learning: Taking FOSS Outdoors

About this episode

The episode discusses the importance of outdoor learning in science education with insights from experts in the field.

It's Time for Science, and it's time to talk again about science learning outdoors! Host Tom Racine talks with Dr. April Holton and educator Elisa Slee about outdoor professional learning and the value of getting both kids and teachers outside. Then Tom talks with Erica Beck Spencer about the history and importance of Taking FOSS Outdoors and weaving outdoor experiences directly into the FOSS curriculum. Dr. April Holton has dedicated over 30 years to science education, serving as a middle school teacher, instructional coach, curriculum specialist, and professor. Currently a Clinical Assistant Professor at Arizona State University and science education consultant, she bridges academia with classroom practice. Her work focuses on transforming science instruction through teacher development, emphasizing phenomena-based, three-dimensional learning that puts students at the center. Dr. Holton believes students learn science best through hands-on exploration, meaningful discourse, and real-world connections. She equips educators with research-backed, practical strategies that make science engaging and accessible. Elisa Slee is a longtime educator and former science curriculum…

People in this episode

Host: Tom Racine

Guests: Dr. April Holton, Elisa Slee

Topics covered

• outdoor learning
• science education
• teacher development
• hands-on exploration
• FOSS curriculum

Keywords

• outdoor learning
• science education
• FOSS curriculum
• teacher development
• hands-on science

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Arizona State University, FOSS

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