Episode 131: Reimagining the Role of Teachers in Nature-Based Learning with Dr. Rachel Larimore and Dr. Claire Warden

Welcome to episode 131 of our podcast, where we are excited to host Dr. Rachel Larimore and Dr. Claire Warden, authors of the enlightening book, "Reimagining the Role of Teachers in Nature-Based Learning." Join us as we dive into the dynamic world of nature-based education and explore transformative insights that promise to redefine how educators engage with their students.

In This Episode, You'll Discover:

• Insights from the Authors: Dr. Larimore and Dr. Warden share compelling narratives and practical strategies from their latest work, transforming traditional teaching approaches through nature-based education.
• Integrating Nature into Learning: Discover how incorporating natural elements into curricula can enhance curiosity and student engagement, creating a more holistic and enriching learning experience.
• Redefining Educator Roles: Learn about the evolving role of educators as guides who facilitate learning experiences that harness the powerful benefits of the natural world.
• Real-World Applications and Strategies: Explore real-world examples and actionable strategies for educators interested in adopting nature-based teaching methods in their classrooms.

About Our Guests:

• Dr. Rachel Larimore is an educator, consultant, and former nature-based preschool director. For nearly 30 years her work has focused on the intentional integration of nature to support young children’s holistic development by learning with nature to expand their worlds and live rich, full lives. She has written multiple books including Preschool Beyond Walls: Blending Early Childhood Education and Nature-Based Learning, Evaluating Natureness: Measuring the Quality of Nature-based Classrooms in Pre-k Through 3rd Grade, and her newest book Reimagining the Role of Teachers in Nature-based Learning: Helping Children be Curious, Confident, and Caring. Rachel is the founder and Chief Visionary of Samara Early Learning, an organization focused on helping early childhood educators start nature-based schools or add nature-based approaches into their existing program. Prior to founding Samara, she spent more than a decade starting and directing one of the first nature-based preschools in the United States.
• Dr. Claire Warden is the Founder of the not-for-profit Living Classrooms and the International Association of Nature Pedagogy (IANP), CEO of Claire Warden Ltd., and Founder and Academic Advisor to the Mindstretchers Academy. She has recently been recognised for her original contribution in the field of education for her thesis ‘The Creation and Theorisation of Nature Pedagogy’. Her inspirational research and approach to experiential learning has developed through a variety of experiences including primary teaching, advisory work, lecturing in further education and development of the award winning Auchlone Nature Kindergarten in Scotland. Claire works with governments and associations around the world to create high quality nature-based models of education learning with nature inside, outside and beyond. Her philanthropic work includes international advisor to the Children and Nature Network, World Forum Foundation, International School Grounds Group and the board of National Trust Scotland.

Tune In and Get Inspired!

Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises to inspire educators, parents, and anyone interested in the profound impact of nature on learning. Whether you're a teacher looking to innovate your teaching methods or a nature enthusiast curious about education, this episode is rich with insights and inspiration.

Resources Mentioned:

• Book: "Reimagining the Role of Teachers in Nature-Based Learning" by Dr. Rachel Larimore and Dr. Claire Warden
• Dr. Claire Warden website
• Dr. Rachel Larimore website