There are several examples of outdoor learning support systems that follow. Use the "Chart of Architectural/Natural Support Systems" as a guide and explore the various environments shown here. This will allow you to construct your own set of learning activities according to cognitive, behavioral, and affective development categories. This activity helps us to figure out "why we do what we do."
The tour of learning environments includes Riverwalk in Augusta, Georgia. The "Chart of Architectural/Natural Support Systems" may be completed as Riverwalk's learning environments are experienced.
Archives of this web site are a working component of SDPL. Additional learning environments will be posted as funding is made available.
Riverwalk
Augusta, Georgia
Riverwalk Amphitheater
The Amphitheater is an architectural support system designed to include a variety of learning activities such as art, drama, and music. Concerning the "Chart of Architectural/Natural Support Systems," the amphitheater serves the learning goal, "creative growth," and is appropriate for all age groups.
This outdoor learning environment overlooks the Savannah River. It is accessible for persons with disabilities and is operated by the Riverwalk Special Events Office .
View 1 From Upper Level Entrance
View 2 From Upper Level Entrance
Entrance 1 to Upper Level
Entrance 2 to Upper Level
View from Stage and Lower Level
Walk-in Textbooks
Analemmatic Sundial ** for Eastern Daylight Time
This analemmatic sundial is an excellent example of a walk-in textbook. Experiencing the sundial enhances cognitive development. Students approximately eight years old, or older, may benefit from this outdoor learning environment, where visual and spatial developments are supported. Problem solving in mathematics and science as well as individual, and group learning goals may be accomplished through studying the Analemmatic Sundial.
Do you want to know more about sundials? Please click on >> ** Sundials - North American Sundial Society- Make A Sundial.
Heroes' Overlook
Heroes' overlook provides information about women and men who served in the armed forces. Students are able to view descriptive plaques in this arena. Cognitive development may be facilitated through experiencing the displays in this bulwark. In addition to concept formation, this aesthetic exhibit deals with the visual and spatial aspects of learning.
Historical Markers
Historical markers reveal a rich history of the region. These help teachers to inspire students in the study of history. Cognitive development is enhanced through studying history at a site relevant to the historical event.
Wildlife
Science and conservation exhibits are also part of the riverwalk outdoor learning environment. Students can view the river's animals and other assorted species of wildlife at several sites. Affective development is reinforced through visual displays and live animals that are present near assorted sites on Riverwalk.
Ducks inhabit the area and are willing to share a sandwich with visitors.
Pocket Garden
An international flavor is added to Riverwalk with a gift from Takarazuka, Japan. This garden contains a waterfall and blends with the traditional southern plants that surround the park. Both cognitive and affective developments are bolstered through experiencing the Japanese pocket garden. The waterfall and plants add to the affective dimension and provide a basis for the study of several aspects of physical science and biology.
The Pocket Garden is located straight ahead on the right. This is part of the lower walkway of Riverwalk.
Paddlewheel
A full scale model of the paddlewheel that powered the last sternwheeler to operate on the Savannah River is shown here. This context provides a basis for the study of nature, history, and science.
Weather Station
A National Weather Service reporting station provides an informative display. Students can learn about current weather conditions from this sophisticated equipment. Concept formation is reinforced through a careful investigation of the scientific instruments used to assess weather conditions. The weather station is an outstanding example of an outdoor learning environment.
Behavioral Development
An outdoor playground in Oglethorpe Park provides a learning area to enhance behavioral development. The assortments of developmentally appropriate structures allow children freedom to experiment in spatial learning. Repetition of activities on the slides and climbing gyms, for example, augments child development.
The Savannah River
Boats may be rented for exploring learning environments along the Savannah river. Cognitive, behavioral, and affective development are strengthened when the student can experience the subject matter. Repetition of tasks in such activities as canoeing speeds up behavioral development, while affective development may be facilitated through the visual and spatial aspects of boating.
Riverwalk View
A general view from the upper level of Riverwalk reveals a levee, a structure to challenge science teachers in dealing with architectural and physical aspects of cognitive development.
This is a view from the area immediately outside Fort Discovery. The Augusta-Richmond County Museum is located at the opposite end of the walk, an indoor learning environment that will be explored in another section of SDPL's web site. The Museum may be reached at (706) 722-8454.
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