Philosophies and Practices of Garden-Based Educators: A Mixed-Methods Study

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 7:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Teachers as Agents of Change in Sustainability Education

Abstract

School gardens are used to support student learning, well-being, and engagement, yet less is known about the educators who sustain garden-based education programs. This mixed-methods study explores the beliefs, practices, and conditions that shape the work of garden-based educators across the United States and other countries. We developed a survey that gathers information on instructional goals, curriculum integration, and institutional support. We are also interviewing garden-based educators to delve more deeply into their motivations, challenges, and experiences. Survey data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics and open coding; interview data will be examined through reflexive thematic analysis. This study aims to identify the knowledge, skills, and supports that enable educators to maintain effective, long-lasting school gardens.

Authors

• Scott Morrison, Elon University

• Grace Rasmussen, Elon University