Interdisciplinary Outdoor Education: Participants’ Experiences in a Science Camp

Abstract

The present study was conducted to determine participant experiences regarding interdisciplinary outdoor education applications within the scope of a science camp project. Designed as a qualitative case study, the research involved 64 participants, including 30 students, 22 parents, and 12 project team members. Data were collected through open-ended questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and student diaries, and analyzed using descriptive analysis. The findings revealed that the outdoor science camp significantly enhanced students’ understanding and perception of science by encouraging curiosity, active engagement, and the ability to view science as an interdisciplinary and real-life process. Students’ conceptualizations evolved from abstract and technical terms to more reflective and integrated ideas, as evidenced by their use of scientific imagery in drawings, including tools, natural elements, and representations from various scientific disciplines. The camp environment promoted emotional awareness, cognitive development, and key skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving through enjoyable and hands-on learning experiences. Students frequently associated science with nature and demonstrated increased environmental sensitivity. They also reported high levels of satisfaction from engaging in collaborative, play-based, and discovery-oriented learning activities. Furthermore, feedback from instructors and counsellors emphasized the program’s effectiveness in fostering student growth and professional learning for educators. The program was noted for offering authentic learning experiences and supporting interdisciplinary thinking. However, some challenges were identified, including the intensity of the activity schedule, weather conditions, and the need to address diverse student backgrounds and learning needs. Overall, the science camp provided a meaningful, engaging, and multidimensional learning experience that enriched participants’ views of science and its role in everyday life.