June 21, 2022 7:15 a.m.
Many public school pupils in the London area will soon be able to use online learning resources without being confined to an indoor classroom.
The Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) has begun to expand learning opportunities by installing outdoor Wi-Fi hotspots and outdoor classrooms on urban, suburban and rural school grounds.
By improving these spaces, the school board said staff and students have already been able to take advantage of the spaces using technology such as Chromebooks and other educational apps outside of the classroom to experience learning activities. more creative.
“Together, these resources provide Thames Valley students with more innovative ways to learn,” said Associate Principal Jeff Pratt. “We have received incredible feedback from our school communities who are already using their outdoor classrooms and Wi-Fi access. We look forward to bringing outdoor classrooms to even more of our schools in the future. coming. »
TVDSB launched outdoor classrooms in 20 local elementary and secondary schools last year by reallocating unused funds from outdoor education.
Stone benches and other natural materials were used to create outdoor classrooms. During the 2021-2022 school year, three more schools have installed outdoor classrooms. TVDSB said it plans to expand outdoor learning areas to 15 more schools.
Access point locations have been determined in consultation with principals to ensure convenient access for students and staff.
