Gardening to Support Learning

In the past scholastic year, the pandemic restrictions have had school authorities scratching their heads in planning how to open doors whilst keeping students and staff socially distant. This has seen various schools, even locally, revisiting practices to make best use of any available space. It was interesting to see some very good practices where the use of outdoor area was maximised. More schools have started integrating gardening programs in their learning programs. Such programs teach students numerous life and academic competencies and skills. Students learn where food comes from, and support learning in science, social studies and other subjects. Nowadays many students live in households with limited access to any form of vegetaiton, let alone gardens. Continuous development in our tiny island is limiting young students in experiencing any form of vegetation.

Gardening activities can improve young students’ eating habits by increasing their knowledge of, preference for, and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Increasing physical activity while gardening can be fairly easy and simple. Gardening, itself, is great exercise. Gardening programs may have various benefits of which appreciation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); 2. Zero Hunger, 3. Good health & Well-being, 10 Reduced inequlaities, 11. Sustainable Cities & Communities and 13. Climate Action.

Schools don’t need to have an on-site, outdoor garden to start their own programs, nearby local gardens may be used in collaboration with local councils and indoor, hydroponic growing or wall gardens might be considered where space is limited. Gardening is a learning tool that is appropriate for students of any age. Young children may experience multisensory learning, exposed to STEM concepts at an early age. Depth of learning and exposure can increase with age. Technology use in such programs is varied, spanning from capturing evidence, documentation of the learning process, to the use of sensors to automate processes. The creativity of the class or subject teacher, coupled with on demand support services is key for such authentic learning.