The BEETLES (Better Environmental Education, Teaching, Learning, and Expertise Sharing) Inquiry-Based Outdoor Learning curriculum learning sessions are active experiences crafted to encourage instructors to look at specific aspects of research-based science pedagogy and to inspire shifts in instructors’ thinking about their own teaching and learning. Developed by the Lawrence Hall of Science, these hands-on and interactive sessions promote a student-centered approach to help participants better engage with science and the natural world through inquiry. This workshop will focus on Nature and Practices of Science and Evidence and Explanations.

This workshop is for educators (formal, nonformal, and higher education) who want to:
– Explore and discuss the nature and practices of science, and how to engage students in authentic scientific investigations through field study.
– Encourage wonder and curiosity in nature, and explore how making explanations from evidence is a key practice in science.
– Explore best practices for planning and implementing environmental education programs that foster learning and promote inclusivity.