Ryan Johnson shares his approach of teaching philosophy outside and discusses observations and reflections on outdoor learning. The chapter explores cultivating attention and shared learning experiences in the classroom, teaching philosophy outside the classroom, and unintended consequences of borders and the value of education. It also touches on incorporating music in teaching philosophy.
Teaching philosophy outside in natural spaces enhances student attention, engagement, and collective learning experiences.
Creating brave spaces in the classroom promotes risk-taking, deep learning, and inclusive education.
Deep dives
Teaching Philosophy Outside Improves Engagement and Learning
Ryan Johnson, an associate professor of philosophy, shares his experience of teaching philosophy outside. After the COVID-19 shutdown, Ryan explored ways to create an engaged educational experience while ensuring safety. By conducting classes outdoors on campus, Ryan noticed the vibrant environment and sounds were beneficial for student attention and energy levels. The distractions that arise outside, such as animal encounters and spontaneous conversations with passersby, actually enhanced classroom discussions and fostered a sense of collective experience. Ryan's approach to teaching philosophy outside also cultivates a brave space, where students can freely explore ideas and express themselves. Overall, teaching philosophy outside has transformed Ryan's perspective on education and created a more immersive and inclusive learning environment.
Creating a Classroom in Nature: The Benefits of Teaching Outdoors
Ryan Johnson discusses the advantages of teaching in natural spaces. By going outside with his philosophy classes, Ryan noticed a heightened sense of attention and engagement among students. The openness and expansive nature of outdoor environments allowed for a deepened connection to the surroundings, including encounters with animals and interactions with the campus community. The structural boundaries of an outdoor classroom are more fluid, encouraging improvisation, collaboration, and collective learning experiences. Being outdoors also fosters a sense of freedom and rejuvenation, making discussions and learning more dynamic and energized. In addition, teaching outside cultivates a sense of public education, emphasizing learning for the community and connecting individual learning to the larger world.
Embracing Improvisation and Adaptability in Teaching Philosophy
Ryan Johnson highlights the importance of improvisation and adaptability in his philosophy classes. By embracing an improvisational approach, Ryan structures the classroom environment to allow students to actively participate in their own learning. He creates a flexible space that encourages students to engage with course material in their own unique ways, allowing for a variety of perspectives and interpretations. The constantly changing nature of outdoor classrooms, from encountering animals to unexpected interactions with passersby, fosters an environment of spontaneity and exploration. Ryan's role as a teacher is to harmonize and guide the students' attentions and intensities, creating a collective educational experience. Through improvisation, Ryan helps students cultivate their own will to learn and deepens their engagement with philosophical concepts.
Cultivating Brave Spaces and Safety for Deep Learning
Ryan Johnson explores the importance of creating brave spaces in the classroom. Rather than focusing on safe spaces, Ryan aims to foster environments where students feel comfortable taking risks and exploring challenging topics. By cultivating a brave space, students are encouraged to contribute their thoughts and engage in difficult conversations, knowing they will be met with respect and understanding. Ryan's approach involves building trust and intimacy within the learning community, which allows for deep learning experiences and meaningful connections. Within this dynamic learning environment, students are given the freedom to navigate their own learning journeys and receive generous feedback for growth. By prioritizing brave spaces, Ryan promotes education that is personal, inclusive, and impactful for both individuals and the larger community.
Ryan Johnson shares about teaching philosophy outside on episode 480 of the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast
Quotes from the episode
What are the dominant sounds on campus? What are the kind of patterns at which people move? What are the movement of the trees versus the light versus the animals versus people?
-Ryan Johnson
The relationship between the teacher and a student is not intelligence to intelligence, but instead will to will.
-Ryan Johnson
A good distraction is one that can help us come back together, that can allow our attention or our stamina to have a release to return.
-Ryan Johnson
I cultivate brave spaces, not safe spaces.
-Ryan Johnson
I started to notice all these things about campus that one does not as they move through, rather than sits in and resonates with, especially the sounds.
-Ryan Johnson
