College classes can happen outdoors and they should! Rather than try to recreate an indoor experience outdoors (such as by moving rows of desks and chairs to a tennis court or under a tent outside), professors should consider seeking out novel places on or nearby campus, such as community gardens, walking paths, nearby parks, or other outdoor spaces that are nature-rich. Students can sit on the ground, on mats or camp chairs, and enjoy the benefits of fresh air and open space while they learn. Professors can create independent learning activities that their students can complete outside. Writing assignments, reading and even research can be conducted outdoors.

Students can be encouraged to seek connections between course content and community resources. For example, this might mean mapping campus or campus resources, learning about public services such as public transportation, food access, and other necessities. Many content areas can be connected to college courses and direct exploration of the local community is a great way to engage students while providing safe and rigorous outdoor learning opportunities. Since CoVid-19 has temporarily shuttered many study abroad programs, how might you engage students in “microadventure” programs that are focused locally?

A daily assignment that prompts students to go outdoors can be useful in helping first year students in setting routines, managing their time, and also feeling grounded. Knowing that time in nature has cognitive and emotional benefits, professors should recognize that daily time outdoors can be critically important as students deal with the stress of the pandemic, the uncertainty of the future, and possible worries about loved ones.In addition, it helps students maintain attention and focus throughout their day. College campuses should establish and maintain outdoor spaces for students to study, relax, and work in small, socially distanced groups. These could include places for students to hang hammocks, sit on picnic blankets or at small tables, or under the spreading branches of trees. Many places that were formerly “off-limits” to students’ recreational activities such as hammocks, frisbee games, or football should be re-evaluated and accessible whenever possible.