This online, self-paced course is designed to equip educators with the knowledge, skills, tools and resources to take environmental education learning outdoors. Over the 8-week course tem, participants will explore resources, videos, and complete assignments in which they will:

• Articulate a case and include at least five research/evidence-based benefits of teaching outdoors.
• Have a working definition and be able to provide examples of what outdoor learning is for you as a teacher. 
• Identify potential barriers for your students and articulate ways to minimize or eliminate those barriers. 
• Identify and assess at least five outdoor learning opportunities for your students. 
• Express the who, what and how of strategies for gaining the necessary support for your short, medium and long term outdoor learning goals and/or projects. 
• Identify strategies for successful outdoor learning which include overall strategies, management of students, adapting for weather and using technology outdoors. 
• Compare and contrast the learning environments of an indoor classroom space and outdoor learning space to more effectively teach outdoors. 
• Complete an outdoor learning plan which includes goals and objectives, getting support, inclusion, classroom management, location(s), curriculum connections, weather, safety and necessary materials 

Although learning is self paced, there is a suggested timeline of completion for each module. Additionally, participants will be required to attend a 1-hour online discussion with fellow eeCourse participants to share ideas, reflections on course materials, and/or their final course project. 

Participants who complete this course can earn 1 credit hour of continuing education through Adams State University (additional fee of $60 paid to Adams State University) 

Registration for Fall 2026 will be open August 5 - September 24, 2026. The term begins September 28 and all assignments are due by November 20, 2026. This course is designed to be completed within the designated timeframe, so please plan accordingly to make the most of your learning experience, and ensure you have the time to fully participate in the course. If unexpected circumstances prevent you from finishing, you may request a one-time deferral to a future course term for a $50 fee.

REGISTER HERE

Supervisors interested in enrolling multiple staff can receive a discount of one free registration for every three registrations! Email Lisa Eadens at [email protected] for more details and to receive a registration code.