Learning English in Nature UMPO Hosts International Guest Lecture at Banaran Pine Forest

UMPO.AC.ID – The Banaran Pine Forest in Ponorogo became the venue for an International Guest Lecture titled “Early Childhood English Learning Practices in the Forest” on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. The event featured Sean Hyink, B.A. from the Peace Corps as the guest lecturer, who shared his insights and experiences on teaching English to young children through a nature-based learning approach.

The program was a collaboration between the Peace Corps, TK PKK 02 Wagir Kidul, the Early Childhood Education (PAUD) Study Program of Universitas Muhammadiyah Ponorogo, the PAUD Study Program of Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, the Postgraduate Pedagogy Program of UMPO, and the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) UMPO.

Through this activity, educators and students gained hands-on experience on how English learning can be conducted in a fun and engaging way amidst a natural environment. The children learned through games, songs, and simple conversations integrated with forest exploration activities.

This outdoor learning approach not only enhanced children’s language skills but also fostered curiosity, love for nature, and the development of independent, globally minded learners. The event served as concrete evidence that nature can be an inspiring learning space to nurture environmentally conscious generations ready to face future challenges.