RESEARCH

The Association Between Duration of School Garden Exposure and Self-Reported Learning and School Connectedness

The study showed that the school garden helped students learn academic and practical skills, feel connected to their school community, and gain confidence in growing plants. Students felt the gardens were beneficial for their learning and enjoyed participating in the program.

Program Types: Social

Population Groups: Children/Youth, Students

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Better Nutritional Awareness, Increased Social Engagement & Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Education

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening, Meal/Diet-Based Activities

Evidence Type: Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Patient-Reported Outcomes, Standardized Assessment Tools, Program Effectiveness

Access: Paid

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Summary

The research paper discusses how the University of Arizona’s Community and School Garden Program (CSGP) has helped enhance learning in schools by creating garden spaces where students can engage in hands-on activities. University students join K-12 students in maintaining these gardens, fostering curiosity and teamwork. The program operates for 16 weeks each semester, with university students taking a service-learning course where they attend weekly classes and intern at the school gardens. This collaboration aims to help students learn not just academic subjects but also practical skills like growing plants and understanding environmental science.

Through surveys and observations, researchers found that students felt more connected to their school community and reported increased learning in various subjects. The gardens provided a calm space, allowed students to experience nature, and helped them try new things. Overall, students enjoyed the program and felt confident in their ability to grow plants, indicating the positive impact of working in the school gardens.

Link

Lohr, A.M., Bell, M.L., Coulter, K. et al. (2022) The association between duration of school garden exposure and self-reported learning and school connectedness. Health Education & Behavior, 9, 109019812210842

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