Good Natured: Making Room For Nature in Our Busy Lives

There is no question in my mind about the truth written in this article. I have taught in many schools inside and outside of Ohio. Even as a substitute teacher, I can tell which schools take field trips to Columbus Metro Parks and which do not---it is more than just better cognitive abilities. The students whose schools emphasize field trips and short exercises walking in natural rather than indoor gyms or concrete jungles are immediately identifiable without me ever knowing anything at all about them. These students, especially their middle school-age students, are just happier and more comfortable with themselves as learners, and more respectful of all forms of life when they are inside of the classrooms expected to pay attention and excel. This is true especially in Math, Science, and Technology classes where students often disengage their minds and limit their attention to rote memorization of facts and procedures only; not caring to engage in inquiry. Without inquiry, science and math aren't really going to do these students much good. They need to be engaged in more than just memorizing and spitting it out on tests---exposure to our natural environment stimulates their "abiding sense of wonder and awe." Without the question---there is nothing new learned and we never move forward in our quest for a better community and earth.