Survey Report Available

At the start of pilot testing, educators, parents and grade 7-8 students completed surveys that assessed attitudes, behaviours and potential barriers to integrating Pathway Landmarks into daily life.  689 surveys were collected from local schools and homes, which provided fantastic local information about children from birth through the elementary grades.

Many thanks to everyone who helped to prepare, complete and assess the Pathway start-up surveys, and especially to Trent University Professor Lisa Nisbet and her assistants in analyzing the results.

Survey results are available in three formats:

• Full report
• Summary report
• Poster

Samples of start-up survey learnings:

• Educators and parents reported an interest in doing more activities outdoors, but need ideas and support to help increase outdoor time
• Parks and conservation areas were consistently mentioned as favourite places for families to visit

• Teachers are challenged with limited access to natural areas within walking distance and high costs for bussing; 100% of Grade 5-6 teachers said that easy access to natural areas near homes and schools is very important for their students
• Outdoor time decreases considerably during winter months in all age groups, both at home and at school; ideas for winter activities and advice on dressing for the weather could help overcome this challenge
• Older students (grades 7-8) spend considerable sedentary time every week; opportunities to mentor younger students in outdoor activities would build their leadership skills and boost their physical health through increased activity
• Schools would appreciate help from the community, such as:
  • Mentors to accompany primary students on walks in the neighbourhood
  • Opportunities to meet animals in primary grades
  • Help with growing food or wildlife gardens in grades 3-4
  • Finding nearby renewable energy demonstrations for grades 5-6
  • Finding opportunities for involvement in meaningful community projects in grades 7-8