Teaching Approaches

In order to deliver the utmost in value and effectiveness to each school group, we can present our lessons in a variety of formats. Each of the options below incorporates non-biased approaches to learning and emphasizes critical thinking skills.

Exploration: Our Exploration method encourages students to approach learning with all their senses. We are firm believers that education is most effective when students can experience the subject themselves.  As we hike, cross-country ski, and snowshoe, field groups explore environmental sciences outside, and students are encouraged to actively explore the world around them: breaking rocks, sketching landforms, and hiking through the very ecosystems they are studying.  Free exploration engages students on a personal level and motivates them to take an active interest in their studies. 

Research Project: Undertaking a research project is a fantastic way to introduce students to the scientific method, or give more experienced students a chance to design their own research. Our instructors guide students through the process of developing a question, collecting data, analyzing it, and drawing conclusions.  We take science out of the classroom and into the field, introducing students to the process of ecological field research and fostering an appreciation for scientific inquiry that they can take back to the classroom.

Environmental Issue: This unique series of curricula explore current local environmental dilemmas such as fire ecology, wolf management, and water quality.  We begin by teaching students the ecological, political, and public policy history surrounding the issue in question, and then assign each student the role of a stakeholder, each representing a different position or belief.  Students come to a “Town Meeting” in character and discuss the problem, working together to develop an action plan towards a solution.

Expedition: Expeditions are multi-day explorations that immerse participants in the wilderness, integrating field science and adventure. Trips can include backpacking, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, hiking, or cross-country skiing.  We'll design your group's custom expedition to focus on any of our curriculum themes and explore a variety of diverse ecosystems in Colorado and beyond!