Depending on the group of adults these programs can be taught outdoors doing some hands on exploring, along a hike, or indoors sitting as a lecture. Presentation style is not recommended for most of these programs but for some it works really well. Great for all ages of adults can be adjusted to fit better the needs and goals of the group. So if you don’t see a class that you are looking for check out some of the other class pages or head over to the request a program page to request something totally new!
Wildlife & EcoSystems
Adaptive Animals: The name of the game is survival, literally! Learn the different ways animals adapt to survive predators, pursue prey, and out compete the competition. Can be taught anywhere with space preferably an open area with trails. This one may surprise you people of all ages can get really into the games.
Pond Study: Learn about the aquatic ecosystem found in ponds through an exploration activity plus opportunities to add on a game or additional activity. It’s okay if you don’t have a pond by you we can bring our own! Can be taught anywhere there is outdoor space or a pond.
Basics of Tracks & Signs: Form teams and compete in a series of games and activities to help you learn and develop different tracking skills. As well as learn about the more common animal’s and their signs that you can come across outdoors. Has specific habitat requirement.
Outdoor Classes
Outdoor Survival: Depending on what resources are available at your location there are a few different activities we can do to teach outdoor survival. We also can alter the class to have a STEM focus. Some examples include Shelter Building & Engineering, Fire Science & Physics, and Water Purification & Engineering. Has specific outdoor space requirements.
STEM Classes
Biomimicry Engineering: Learn how some engineers have based their own inventions on things found in nature to create designs that solve similar problems. Then participants will design and create their own inventions to solve a similar issue humans historically have faced or currently do. Potential mini lessons include Flight, Locomotion, Projectiles, Communication, and Energy. Great class for adults who like engineering or who are looking for inspiration to solve problems in the field of engineering.
Physical Sciences
Minnesota Geology: Learn about the rocks and Geology that make up Minnesota. Can have games added for groups of kids or a hike depending on the location and group. Best if taught as a presentation or with rock beds outdoors.
Reading & Writing
Nature Journaling: Learn how to use scientific observation skills and practicing using drawing to record observations in a nature journal. Nature journaling can focus on a variety of topics and can be incorporated into some other classes. Best taught outdoors or a space with windows viewing a natural area. Great for all ages.
History
Ethnobotany: This is the study of how people have used plants throughout history. Whether it is for food, medicine, poison, making stuff, or religious ceremonies people have used plants for many different things. This can be taught as a presentation, hike, or more interactive program with activities.
Service Learning Project Facilitation
Service learning projects are a great way to do something that helps improve your community and the habitat. This is for sure multiple classes to help kids pick a topic, plan a solution, and carry it out. As well as helping with applying for grants or other paperwork that needs to be done. Some of the typical projects include pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and improving habitats for wildlife. If you are looking for more information about Service Learning Project Facilitation check out it’s page. Ages 5 and up can do it but best for kids ages 8 through 18 years old need a mixture of indoor and outdoor space depending on the projects. For more information check out the Service Learning Projects Page!