Program overview
Nature journaling at its most basic is the practice of observing nature and recording your observations. It integrates writing, art, and numbers with observations, curiosity, and research. Nature journaling encourages a connection to nature and place, teaches scientific observational skills, and helps practice mindfulness. Students of any age can benefit from nature journaling, and it can be integrated into any subject area. In this 5-day intensive course (June 24–28, 2024), we will explore a variety of ways to integrate nature journaling into any educational setting.
We will warm up with some activities and discussions in the classroom, and then we will head out into the local parks to spend most of the day practicing our skills. This class will emphasize hands-on learning; there won’t be much reading or homework. I know we’re all very tired at this time of year, so I want this to feel like summer camp for teachers. Teachers who are taking the class for graduate credit will complete a very open-ended project due 3 weeks after class where they will create a plan for how they could use nature journaling in their educational settings.
You will learn the basics of nature journaling by completing the actual activities that you can then use with your students. We will spend as much time outside as possible and will also experiment with indoor activities for when the weather doesn’t cooperate. In addition to doing a deep dive into science practices, you will learn how nature journaling can enhance ELA, social studies, and math lessons. At the end of the class you will have a completed nature journal that you can then carry into your own personal nature journaling practice.
Nope! There will be some light hiking, but the nice thing about nature journaling is that you don’t have to go far to make it a rewarding experience. I’m happy to accommodate any mobility level, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.
No! Nature journaling can be used with any age of students and in any subject. We’ll be experimenting with a variety of activities that can be tailored to any classroom’s curriculum and needs. Newly literate students can focus on drawing pictures and speaking their observations. Math students can collect and analyze statistical data in nature. English language learners can journal in their home language or use journaling to build new vocabulary and connect with their new environment. ELA students can use nature journaling to connect with the environments in their literature and the environments that influenced the authors. High school students can use nature journaling for citizen science projects.
No! You can nature journal in a school yard or in a local park. Does your school have a garden? Students can track the development of things they planted. You can even nature journal a grassy field. Any landscaping can provide a wealth of sources, as can any trees.
No! Art and drawing is only one aspect of nature journaling, and the skills to create beautiful artwork aren’t necessary at all. Drawing is one tool to use to deepen observations, and this can be achieved even with basic drawings. As you practice nature journaling your drawing skills will improve, but you can start from scratch!
Nope! You only need a notebook, a writing utensil, and some coloring utensils. The basic kit I use with my students is an inexpensive notebook, a pencil, and Crayola colored pencils. If you sign up for the class I will send you some suggestions for materials to upgrade your own personal kit, but simple is best with students.
Faculty
