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This Is A Natural Makerspace

Students who learn in Natural Makerspaces have no walls and often no predetermined classroom area (although some schools do have outdoor classrooms). The time spent in nature is bringing an emotional connection to the land that is essential to develop a deep appreciation and the empathy needed to inspire ecological and social actions. Authentic Natural Makerspaces not only gives the opportunity to learn in nature but also from nature.

Pedagogy

The Natural Maker pedagogy draws its roots from a fusion between the pedagogical philosophy of maker centered learning valued by Brilliant Labs since its beginnings and the place-based pedagogy. The Natural Maker pedagogy invites the learner to manipulate, create and build with the elements at his disposal in a nearby natural environment. This pedagogical approach based on the learner in their natural environment allows for the acquisition of an understanding of fundamental learning concepts and the development of essential skills.

Learning In Nature

Learning in nature is inspired by the Forest and Nature School (FNS) movement, a pedagogical approach that has existed since the late 1950s. Nature Schools are multiplying worldwide and are very popular in several European countries such as Finland, Norway and Denmark, which are known for their academic rigour. Guided by the ancestral methods bequeathed by our Aboriginal, Métis and Inuit ancestors and environmental science, this pedagogy is based on respect for the Earth and living beings.

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Natural Making for Educators

KAN Centre Knowlesville, N.B.

From Sustainable Living to Biomaking

Join us for a FREE immersive Winter Outdoor Professional Learning weekend at Knowlesville Art & Nature Centre! This bilingual event offers educators an exciting opportunity to explore natural making through hands-on projects and stories, fostering connections with global cultures, sustainable lifestyles, and biomaking in education. Childcare is available through the children's day program for ages 6 and up.

  • Location: KAN Centre, 111 Simms Rd, Knowlesville, N.B.
  • Date: February 17-18, 2024 | Saturday at 3 PM and Sunday 9 - 3 PM
  • Accommodations: In-school camping (optional hotel/B&B/yurt). Accommodations for children are at parents’ expense (estimated at $120/child).
  • Meals: Provided!

Question? Email julie@brilliantlabs.ca

Places are limited

Register today!

AGENDA

Saturday:

  • Storytelling
  • Preparing fermentation cultures for kombucha and sourdough
  • Supper
  • Candlelight yoga & meditation
  • Campfire & Discussion

Sunday:

  • Breakfast
  • ENKI education - explanation of pedagogy, global multiculturalism, diversity for unity.
  • Storytelling
  • Wild fermentation
  • Lunch
  • Sustainability, land restoration / connection to the land
  • Winter readiness - importance of underlayers, extra considerations for teachers
  • Wellness - x-country skiing, snowshoeing
  • Innovations through Biomaking

Be prepared to immerse yourself in nature-based learning and innovative teaching practices!

Earth Day 2023! Let’s challenge students to be inspired by nature and take action to help fight climate change. Check out these project ideas!

Let’s get talking about sustainability.

Cartoon profile picture of a teacher

The Brilliant Labs’ Speakers Series got my students asking tough questions about the future, but also engaged them to think about what they can do to make a difference. They’re still talking about mycelium!

M. Thomas, Grade 11-12 Physics Teacher

We are here to help teachers, youth, and communities innovate and develop a sustainable and socially responsible entrepreneurial spirit.

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