The “Outdoor Education” training course held in Lisbon combined immersive experiences in the local area with theoretical and practical training sessions, both indoors and outdoors. From day one, the approach was active and intercultural, involving explorations of the city and its historical and cultural roots. The days were marked by moments of sharing with international colleagues (from Poland, Germany, Lithuania, France- Martinique, and Ireland), all guided by Beatriz Canas Mendes, a skilled and engaging trainer.
Indoor activities included:
- Intercultural warm-ups, personal introductions, and presentations of participants’ schools.
- Participatory techniques such as KWL charts, friend diagrams, storytelling, conversation balloons, and collaborative games.
- International educational models: the PERMA model (Seligman), the SEL (Social and Emotional Learning) approach, and references to educational practices from Australia, Bhutan (GNH), and Germany.
- Sharing strategies for inclusion and engagement, both for students and adults.
Outdoor activities included:
- Exploratory outings to Belém, Montesanto, Gulbenkian Foundation, Eduardo VII Park, Carcavelos Beach, and Alfama.
- Environmental observation and investigation activities, including the use of fieldwork sheets and an educational escape room using the GooseChase app.
- Wellness and nature-based experiences: walks, beach games, and visits to symbolic site (Gulbenkian Museum)
The emotional and relational dimension was a strong component of the experience: the exchange among colleagues, the challenges faced, and the mutual support made this training course a genuine opportunity for growth, discovery, and reflection on oneself, on teaching, and on one’s professional future.
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