Open-Air Inquiry: Engaging Students Beyond the Walls
Science learning beyond the walls
Where the classroom has no ceiling.
Open-Air Inquiry invites science teachers to move instruction outside and help students make meaningful connections between classroom learning and the world around them. Participants will explore hands-on, minds-on outdoor investigations focused on meteorology, geology, astronomy, and ecology while practicing observation and data-collection techniques at the Tyler Nature Center.
October 5, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Choose Your Session
K-5 Science Teachers
Workshop #410589
Capacity: 25 participants
Register for K-5 workshop on October 56-12 Science Teachers
Workshop #411005
Capacity: 25 participants
Register for 6-12 workshop on October 5Free to Academic Content Coop members. Registration deadline is September 28, 2026.
Hands-on outdoor learning
What You'll Experience
Meteorology
Explore weather-related observations and outdoor data collection.
Geology
Connect Earth science concepts to natural features and field investigations.
Astronomy
Build connections between classroom astronomy concepts and the outdoor world.
Ecology
Investigate living systems through observation, questioning, and discovery.
Event Details
- Outdoor science investigations
- Hands-on activities for science instruction
- Observation and data-collection techniques
- Connections between classroom content and outdoor experiences
- Learning alongside fellow science educators
What to Bring
Be prepared for the elements.
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Sack lunch
Coolers with bottled water will be provided.
Master Schedule
Schedule Coming Soon
A detailed schedule of investigations and outdoor learning experiences will be posted as the event approaches.
Event Highlights
See Open-Air Inquiry in Action
Take a look at highlights from last year's event and see how educators engaged in hands-on outdoor science learning experiences.
Location & Trail Map
The Nature Center
11942 FM 848
Tyler, Texas 75707
Participants will explore portions of the Tyler Nature Center trail system throughout the day. Click the trail map below to open a larger version in a new tab.
Take science beyond the classroom
Join us for Open-Air Inquiry.
Spend the day exploring, investigating, and gathering practical ideas to help students experience science in the world around them.
Need More Information?
For additional information about Open-Air Inquiry, registration assistance, or event details, please contact the Region 7 ESC Science Team below.
