Effects of incorporating in-school gardening on the mental well-being and sense of belonging of students, The

This mixed-methods study explored the use of in-school outdoor gardening as a means of addressing the mental health needs of grade 5 students. Students in a grade 5 classroom in a rural Manitoba school participated in outdoor gardening activities for two months of the school year. The study measured the impact of participation in the gardening activities on students’ self-perceived mental well-being and sense of school belonging. Quantitative data was collected using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and a Mental Wellness Questionnaire and qualitative data was collected by conducting one-on-one interviews with each participant. The study’s findings demonstrated overall improvement in students’ self-perceived sense of well-being following participation in the gardening activity, with students reporting a reduction in emotional difficulties at the end of the study. There was also an improvement in students’ sense of school belonging through improved peer relationships. In addition, the study reported incidental benefits of participating in the gardening activity which included increased student engagement and sense of ownership over the school garden.Includes bibliographical references (pages 72-77). "A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Education.