Wilderness Philosophies

When I walk outside, what am I looking at and where do I fit into this?

Dire climate warnings can leave us feeling powerless. We are not. Despite the damage humans have done to the planet, we are also its environmental stewards.

In this integrated lab science class, we will:

- examine different historical and cultural philosophies about humans’ relationship to the earth

- read Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer, as well as excerpts and field notes from famous naturalists

- explore the biotic and abiotic factors that impact ecosystems, biomes, and habitats

- learn about the water cycle and its role on our planet

- create closed ecosystems (ecocolumns) that mirror those found in temperate forests

- spend time outside nature journaling and find “a piece of wild” in our own neighborhoods.

By the end of the course, students should feel excited and empowered in their relationship to the land and the environment.

Prerequisites: None.

Instructor: Alyssa Hartson

DETAILS:

Suggested age range: 13+

Outside work: Nature journaling, readings from Braiding Sweetgrass, outdoor lab experiments, additional readings and videos. Approximately 4-5 hours/week.

When & where: Tuesdays and Fridays 11:00-12:00 Eastern Time, August 6-August 23, 2024.

Fee: $150 ungraded/$200 graded; this includes a non-refundable registration fee of $10. Students must also purchase or borrow their own copies of Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer and a blank journal for nature journaling. We offer discounts for groups, siblings, and students who enroll in multiple classes. (Discount information.) Payment plans available. Fees waived for families with financial need.  (Waivers and payment plan information.) Questions about how classes work? Read our course FAQ.

Photo Credit: Laura Fokkena