A fascinating exploration of how animal-assisted interventions in educational settings can inspire and support learners' all-round development. There is growing interest in the subject of bringing animals into the classroom, but it is only recently that researchers have gathered clear data to show the impact of animal-assisted interventions on children and young people's behavioural, emotional, physical and language development. Tails from the Classroom brings together this research in a highly accessible way, illustrated with real-life case studies from a range of classroom contexts. It also includes lots of practical guidance on how to set up, manage and evaluate a project, ensuring that the welfare of all participants, including the animals, is a priority. This groundbreaking book is not just for animal-loving educators, however. It is for anyone who is serious about motivating and inspiring learners of all ages and who is prepared to explore new ways of doing so. Dr. Helen Lewis is Director of Initial Teacher Education in the Swansea University School of Education. Part of her role involves leading an educational anthrozoology module, and undertaking original research into the impact of animal-assisted interventions in educational settings. After studying animal and human behaviour at university she became a primary school teacher and has worked in education for over 20 years. |