Victoria Walsh

Reflection of Context and Place- NBES 2015

I chose to use a photo of an outdoor space in the community close to the

school. The calm quiet environment and the shelter of the trees provides a
wonderful place for students to take part in deep learning. I feel this space
facilitates the opportunity for deeper learning by providing a space where students
can learn hands-on. The outdoor environment supports the physical well-being of
students along with assisting a student to explore their interests and identity. The
school grounds, while providing students with the opportunity to learn in a natural
outdoor space, does not provide the space many students need to move their bodies
throughout the day. This environment promotes those chances. The respect and
expectation that accompany the freedom of the outdoor environment encourages
student to learning self-regulation skills. Students have the chance to explore and
be responsible for their own bodies and actions while learning.
I feel it is key to have an understanding of the environment/community in
which your students are immersed while they are not in school. Students at NBES,
when not in school, have the opportunity to take part in outdoor activities such as
recreational sports, hiking and exploring different bodies of water, both fresh and
salt. The school is located in a community with a population of approximately
5,000. At this school there is a diverse population of students which also provides

students with different opportunities based on their families resources. Some

students come from larger ocean view homes while others have to be bussed in
from rural surrounding areas. It is key as a teacher, to have a deep understanding of
where your students come from and what influence their environment can have on
their learning