Syaza Soraya Sauli

As the recipient of the 2023 Merdeka Award Grant for International Attachment, the University of Minnesota Duluth was the perfect place for my three-month stint.

The university, closely supported by the State’s strong policies and research in nature-based learning, made it an ideal spot for coming under the guidance of Professor Julie Ernst, a leading expert at its Center for Environmental Education.

“There’s no way that we can help children to learn to love and preserve this planet if we don’t give them direct experiences with the miracles and blessings of nature.” Anita Olds (2001)

Meet my Host Supervisor, Prof Julie

Health, Science and Technology

Dato' Professor Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman

Recipient for Year 2022

Something that is worth doing is often tough, but the rewards can be big.

A Transformative Learning Experience

Twice a week, I served as a teaching intern in two nature preschool settings, gaining first-hand knowledge and experiences in nature-based learning.

Here, I gained the experience of collaborating closely with the University researchers to complete a project study in nature-based education. My contribution involved conducting post-tests study with the children and observing their behavior. The project aimed to compare the resilience levels of preschoolers engaged in nature-based education versus those in non-nature-based settings. Working closely with university researchers, I help to administer assessments and documented the children's responses and behaviors throughout the study. At the University, I also connected with education experts and researchers from the United States, Canada and Australia.

I also had the opportunity to observe and tour the Child Development Laboratory School at the University of Minnesota and had several one-to-one sessions to learn from Dr. Sheila Williams Ridge, Director of Lab - a leader, educator and researcher, who generously shared her wealth of knowledge and experience.

I also attended a workshop led by the renowned Professor Bora Simmons, hosted by the Minnesota Association for Environmental Education at the Great Lakes Aquarium. Another highlight was the one-on-one session I had with Dr. Cathy Jordan, a pioneering expert in nature-based learning education in the United States.

During this time, I also joined a Native American Workshop and gained insights into how indigenous culture was duly considered in shaping nature policies in the country. Presenting my work at the Spring Workshop provided me with valuable feedback from many experts, further refining my research and approach.

My time in Minnesota also brought me on visits to observe more than ten preschools, both nature-based and non-nature preschools, including those in the Head Start Programs that cater to children from low-income backgrounds.

There were also regular faculty meetings and collaborative sessions with Forest Schools, which further enriched my understanding and experience.

My Workstation in UMD

My visit the Child Laboratory, University of Minnesota_ accompanied by the Director, Dr Sheila

I joined the other researcher to conduct the post-study on children_s resilience

One of the workshop I have attended. Meet my new friends!

I had a chance to visit many preschools - nature and non-nature preschools to understand how each of them incorporate nature in teaching and learning

Engaging with the Community

Beyond the lecture halls, preschools and field observations, I actively attended community gatherings, and helped organise workshops, and seminars including the 2024 Duluth Nature Play Learning Gathering - a platform for educators to share practices, present work, and empower research. This presented a good opportunity to network, reflect and apply theories in practice with like-minded individuals in my field.

My time in Minnesota also marked my first experience of Ramadhan and Hari Raya in the United States. Fasting during the chilly winter months brought a new dimension to spiritual practice. The diverse Muslim community from Asia, South America, Australia and Africa came together at the Twin Ports Islamic Center, allowing me to embrace and celebrate the richness of different cultures of a common Muslim faith first-hand.

Immersive Experiences in Nature

Many of my weekends were filled with enriching outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and moonlit forest walks, often accompanied by preschool children whose infectious enthusiasm added an extra layer of joy to each excursion.

Quite unexpectedly, I also found myself in a mesmerizing snowstorm, which transformed the landscape into a winter wonderland. This snowy backdrop set the stage for me to jump in one of Minnesota's cherished activities: snowshoeing. What made this adventure truly magical was sharing it with children during a nature immersion walk. Together, we explored the whims of the weather, tracked animal footprints, and savored steaming cups of hot tea under the open sky.

I’ll also never forget the campfire activities: special moments amidst crackling embers and starlit skies.

One of my evenings was graced by the Northern Lights, visible from my apartment backyard! The dancing ribbons of color across the sky left me in awe. It was also exciting to experience a solar eclipse experience, deepening my appreciation for the natural cosmic wonders above.

Beyond the city limits of Duluth, I ventured into the picturesque landscapes of state parks like Gooseberry Falls, Jay Cooke, Enger Tower, Park Point, Aerial Lift Bridge, Lake Superior Maritime Visitor, French River, and many other places. These excursions offered me glimpses of Minnesota's natural beauty, from cascading waterfalls to serene riverbanks. Plus, I indulged in local delights including smokefish at Russ Kendall's Smoke Shop, savoring the region's culinary specialties.

I also witnessed the shipping process at the Port of Duluth, the world's farthest inland port accessible to ocean-going ships, and among the top 20 U.S. ports by tonnage.

A Foundation for Future Endeavors

This remarkable attachment in Duluth has not only enriched my knowledge and skills but also strengthened my resolve to empower and enrich young children through nature-based learning with fresh approaches.

I had a chance to learn closely from these amazing nature-preschool educator. Thank you Laura, Lexy and Laura W.

Experiencing the Snowshoeing Activity in Duluth, MN

The Magical Aurora Moment in Duluth

“There’s no way that we can help children to learn to love and preserve this planet if we don’t give them direct experiences with the miracles and blessings of nature.” Anita Olds (2001)

Risk Assessment for a home-based nature preschool. Thank you Dr Elizabeth for the supervison