Junction Outdoor Learning Center Helping to Reverse Nature-Deficit Disorder

By Michael Rodriguez, Graduate Assistant

TTU at Junction's Outdoor Learning Center (OLC) has been devoted to creating STEM educational experiences that engage K-12 students. The OLC provides hands-on activities that not only stimulate imagination but remedy Nature-Deficit Disorder. When visiting the OLC, students are involved in real science in an outdoor learning environment you can find only at the Texas Tech Outdoor Learning Center. This past year proved no different, with many school districts' students traveling out to visit.

Students from districts all across Texas have been immersed in science at the OLC. Last spring, Trent ISD came to visit the Outdoor Learning Center in late March. The 5th grade class had a blast studying Lepidopterology, collecting several sulfur butterflies. Beautiful monarch butterflies were spotted but were a tad too quick for the young student entomologists. Luckily, a black swallowtail was able to be successfully collected, studied, and released. These Trent ISD students had a full environmental educational experience during their visit. Spring is truly the best time to experience the unique educational activities at the OLC!

Hunt ISD made the trip for a day-long excursion filled with outdoor learning. The 5th grade class split the day with two curricula, first learning about quail habitats with the OLC's Quail CSI course. With the rest of their time, students studied Aquatic Biology, testing river water quality using a multitude of tools provided by the OLC. The trip provided an excellent way for students to see real-life studies of the science they had been learning about in school, with the students referring to their trip to the OLC as the “best field trip ever!”

Grady ISD also took advantage of the beautiful weather last spring while visiting the Outdoor Learning Center. Students spent their time studying all-time favorite courses including Watersheds, Nocturnal Predators, Geology and Astronomy. They even explored a new course, Naturalist Photography. Students used a set of iPads that were purchased from the Hal and Charlie Peterson grant. Students were allowed to explore and photograph the beautiful ecological scenes around the South Llano River.

Hands-on learning is an essential staple in developing a young mind, and TTU at Junction's Outdoor Learning Center goes the extra mile. The OLC provides curriculum based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), allowing students to learn in the unique environment of the South Llano River with authentic field experiences. Texas Tech at Junction is always ready to welcome school districts with open arms; whether just for a day excursion or for a multi-day learning experience.