Why Take Students Outside?
Outdoor learning is a research-supported teaching strategy that helps faculty improve student engagement, deepen learning, and support student success. Across disciplines, brief, intentional outdoor experiences enhance attention, retention, motivation, and belonging while connecting theory to real-world contexts.
90%+ of faculty report higher student engagement during outdoor learning.
Source: Boyle et al., 2007
How Outdoor Learning Benefits Your Students
Improves Student Engagement
Without adding content
- More attention, motivation, and participation
- Reduced mental fatigue improved focus
- Sparks curiosity and interest-driven inquiry
Supports Student Wellbeing
Wellbeing and learning go hand in hand
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Improves mood, cognition, and capacity for learning
- Supports persistence and academic success
Builds Skills Faculty Care About
Teamwork, leadership, and communication emerge naturally
- Cooperative problem-solving and teamwork
- Leadership development
- Stronger interpersonal relationships
Strengthens Learning and Retention
Students remember what they learn outdoors
- Better retention and application of content
- Engages multiple senses for deeper understanding
- "Moments of discovery" become lasting reference points
Make Abstract Concepts Concrete
Connect theory to real-world experience
- Stronger connection between theory and application
- Place-based learning shows relevance across disciplines
- Content becomes contextual, situated, and meaningful
Supports Inclusive & Belonging-Centered Teaching
Helps more students feel they belong
- Builds confidence and sense of belonging
- Supports first-year students and key transitions
- Strengthens retention, success, and equity
Work Across Disciplines - and at Any Scale
You don't have to redesign your course
Outdoor learning can be a single class session, a short field observation, or a discussion or activity outside your building.
Faculty across STEM, social sciences, arts, business, and health disciplines successfully integrate outdoor learning without sacrificing content or rigor.
