After reading Susan’s article about the UBC Orchard Garden and the Cultivating Learning Network, I was amazed by how a passion project blossomed into such an incredible space for learning, cultivation, and inspiration for students.
As someone who regularly practices yoga and Pilates outdoors, I wholeheartedly agree with the idea of co-teaching with the living ecosystem. Nature and our community spaces are generous teachers. I’ve learned so much from nature—the mountains taught me resilience, the butterflies illustrated the cycle of life, and the rain showed me the importance of letting go. These elements continually inspire me on my spiritual journey, encouraging me to persevere even in the face of challenges. As a future math teacher, I can envision teaching geometry and number operations using objects from the garden. Visualization through nature offers a fascinating and tangible way to learn.
Another important point from the article is integration. Partnering with faculties such as Land, Food, and Systems gives students the opportunity to learn about food production. I believe every student should be educated on the importance of food and its connection to everyday resources. Food is something we often take for granted, and understanding its origins helps foster a deeper appreciation for it.
There are challenges to incorporating garden-based learning in school settings, particularly in high schools. These include space availability, maintaining classroom discipline, and addressing health concerns, such as allergies. However, these obstacles can be managed with mindful planning regarding outdoor time and its impact on student learning. Clear communication with school administrators can also help facilitate these efforts.
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