Assessing learning in the outdoors with the field trip in natural environments (FiNE) framework
Field trip in natural environments (FiNE) framework offers means to plan and assess nature-based educational trips
This study presents a multifaceted framework to assess the efficacy of field trips to natural and outdoor environments. The authors developed a framework, based on prior research, referred to as the Field Trips in Natural Environments (FiNE) framework. The primary purpose of developing this framework was to provide a consistent and multifaceted evaluation strategy for outdoor field trip programs and to evaluate them at multiple levels including their: preparation, pedagogy, activity and outcomes. The authors developed the FiNE framework through student interviews and observations of 22 nature trips taken by 4th through 6th graders in Israel. The authors sought to gain a more broad understanding of field trip efficacy by evaluating the different perspectives of the students, facilitators, teachers, and themselves as researchers.
The FiNE framework helps to develop outdoor field trips with more intentionality. For example, it helps to enhance communication between the outdoor facilitator and classroom teacher so lessons within the classroom are linked to the outdoor experience, both prior to and following the experience. Use of the framework in assessing nature trips suggests that there is often limited preparation and an emphasis on traditional pedagogies during outdoor learning experiences. However, it also identified the importance of social interactions and physical learning activities. Overall, the FiNE framework provides researchers with a mechanism to plan and assess various components of nature-based field trips and their outcomes.
Citation
Morag, O., Tal, T., (2012). Assessing learning in the outdoors with the field trip in natural environments (FiNE) framework. International Journal of Science Education, 34(5),
