It is impossible to learn when birds are beckoning me to enjoy the world with them outside. I must join them. For this, Drew needs an outdoor classroom.
Around this time in spring, we get the most wonderful days. Days when the breeze tickles your arms instead of nipping at any exposed skin. Days when you can bathe in sunlight or enjoy the cool canopy of shade. Days that coax out the flowers and animals. Am I expected to spend these days inside, resigned to looking at the flourishing environment only through a pane of glass? Unfortunately, my schedule says yes.
Once warmer weather hits, many of my classmates and I often ask our professors to let us have class outside. However, it is rare that we are actually able to venture out, mainly because of structural limitations. It’s difficult to have a lecture outside. It’s also difficult to use technology, take notes and write without some sort of desk. However, if Drew had an outdoor classroom space, we could simultaneously learn, complete classwork and enjoy the outdoors when weather permits.
These seasonally transitional days are so few and occur during the semester—at the beginning of the fall semester and at the end of the spring semester. Thus, I feel it is essential to make the most of these rare perfect days by spending as much time outside as possible.
Though I can see how meeting outside can pose some complications, and it is certainly not feasible for every course, an outdoor classroom could allow students to enjoy the world while partaking in class. This outdoor classroom could be as simple as picnic tables oriented in such a way that lectures and classroom discussions are made possible. Many other factors, such as students dressing weather-appropriately and bringing all necessary resources, could be properly prepared for if the space is booked ahead of time and students know they will be meeting there in advance.
This space could also provide a fun environment for clubs on campus to host events and serve as a study space for students.
When a professor does bring my class outside, I feel like my creativity is amplified. Apparently, it’s not just my personal feelings either. According to The University of Arizona Global Campus, “when students take their learning materials outdoors, they can tackle their subjects with enhanced motivation, creativity, and competence, and may even strengthen their peer relationships in the process.”
During a time of year when it is difficult for many students to stay motivated, creating a change of pace and environment can help students stay engaged with their materials. Rather than daydream about going outside once class is over, students can enjoy the sunshine, get some vitamin D and attentively work with their professors.
This would be especially beneficial as we approach the end of the semester and finals. An outdoor classroom is exactly what students need to enjoy the world around them while getting everything done during the busiest part of the year.
Katie Carmichael is a junior majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing and a minor in teaching.
Featured image courtesy of Pexels.com.