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Ontario Tech University
   
    May 02, 2026  
2025-2026 Undergraduate Academic Calendar 
    
2025-2026 Undergraduate Academic Calendar
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EDST 4620U – Ecology of Learning: Play, Nature, and Community in Education


This course focuses on the dynamic correlation between educational practices, the natural world, and community engagement in the early years. This course explores the philosophies and practices of place-based education and land-based learning, emphasizing how integrating nature, play, garden pedagogy, forest school principles, risky play and Indigenous world views into early childhood environments enhances holistic learning experiences and fosters a deeper connection to the land, community, and culture. 

Through inquiry, project-based learning, case studies, and community collaborations, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to create engaging and effective early years learning environments that celebrate the intersections of ecology, play, garden pedagogy, forest schools, risky play, place-based learning and community engagement.

 
Credit hours: 3
Lecture hours: 2
Tutorial hours: 1.5
Prerequisite(s): EDST 1000U  and third- or fourth-year standing



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