Outdoor education helps reduce stress and deserves a permanent place in higher professional education
With the arrival of spring – bringing more light, fresh air and space – attention for being outdoors is growing. Not only during breaks, but increasingly as part of teaching itself.
Teaching outdoors may sound simple, yet it is still rarely done in higher education. Within the Leisure & Events Management programme at NHL Stenden, an increase in stress and study delay was observed. National figures show that as many as 97% of students experience stress (Trimbos, 2023). Research by lecturer Mark Kaspersma demonstrates that outdoor education contributes positively to student wellbeing. Still, many lecturers face barriers, such as lack of time, uncertainty about suitable teaching formats, and feeling exposed due to limited shelter.
From research to toolbox
The BuitenGewoon Bekwaam project focuses on practical solutions to overcome these barriers. Students from the Placemaking minor explored where outdoor education can take place on campus and developed a toolbox with teaching methods that lecturers can use immediately, ranging from reflection exercises to active group assignments. In addition, a training programme is being developed to support lecturers in both the didactics and organisation of outdoor education.
Learning and designing together
This approach aligns with NHL Stenden’s educational vision, in which Design Based Education (DBE) plays a central role. Students, lecturers and external partners such as Nature Academy and Snoek collaborated through co-creation. Programmes including Built Environment, Communication and Tourism Management were also involved. These different perspectives led to creative and feasible solutions.
The campus as a classroom
NHL Stenden is increasingly creating space for outdoor education. At the Kennisplein in Leeuwarden, sheltered workspaces have been set up where students and lecturers can comfortably learn and teach. Mathijs Rutten, Director of Campus & Facility Management, explains: “By consciously designing outdoor spaces, we make outdoor education more accessible and appealing. Even fifteen minutes outside can make a significant difference.”