A Glimpse into the Past:Unraveling 66 Million Years of Mammalian Diversity.

**The Importance of Historical Context in Understanding the Present**:

Alex Shupinski is shown in Bighorn Basin in Wyoming, where she collected Cenozoic era fossils.

To truly comprehend the present, delving into the past offers invaluable insights. Groundbreaking research from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln has shed light on the fossil record dating back 66 million years, tracking changes in mammalian ecosystems and species diversity across North America. This extensive study, led by Alex Shupinski, who recently earned her doctorate, alongside co-author Kate Lyons, an associate professor in the School of Biological Sciences, provides a comprehensive view of how species diversity evolved throughout the first 65 million years of the Cenozoic era, up until the advent of humans.

**The Influence of Climate and Environmental Shifts**:

The study not only reveals patterns in species diversity but also explores how climate and other environmental factors, such as shifting landscapes, have influenced animal life on the continent. Shupinski’s work, conducted in Wyoming’s Bighorn Basin where she collected Cenozoic era fossils, offers a detailed look at the relationship between mammals and their changing environments.

Published in the *Proceedings of the Royal Society B*, the findings highlight how mammals bounced back after the last mass extinction event that wiped out non-avian dinosaurs. Shupinski explained the significance of these environmental changes: “Beginning 66 million years ago, we transition from a completely sub-tropical environment across North America to grasslands, then to a frozen savanna, and finally, the Ice Age. Our study shows how species evolved through these diverse ecological, environmental, and climatic shifts, allowing us to make comparisons across different events and spatial scales.”

**A Deep Dive into the Cenozoic Era's Fossil Record**:

The researchers meticulously divided the fossil record of the Cenozoic era into million-year segments, applying three indices of functional diversity. This approach quantifies changes in community structures using mammalian traits, providing insights into mammalian communities at both local and continental scales.

A remarkable discovery was that, for the majority of the Cenozoic era, local and continental measures of functional diversity varied significantly. However, in the first 10 million years following the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs, all measures of functional diversity—both locally and continentally—showed a simultaneous increase.

Shupinski found this convergence particularly intriguing: “It was fascinating to observe that, for most of the Cenozoic, functional diversity was decoupled across time and spatial scales, except during this one period. For 10 million years, all the measures changed in the same direction. Then, around 56 million years ago, a significant wave of mammalian immigration from other continents triggered a divergence in functional diversity.”

**A Close Examination of Ancient Mammals**:

In her research, Kate Lyons, an associate professor, examines a *Coryphodon radians* specimen, a pantodont dating back about 12 million years after the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs. This fossil, housed at the Smithsonian Institution, provides a window into the evolutionary shifts that occurred in mammalian communities following the dinosaurs' demise.

Lyons explains the complexity of these changes: “Communities are evolving at different times, at varying rates, and in different directions. Locally, we might observe an increase in the diversity of roles within communities, while on a continental scale, this diversity could be decreasing.” This observation underscores the intricate nature of species adaptation and diversification over millions of years.

**Environmental Shifts and Their Impact on Mammalian Evolution**:

Lyons attributes some of the shifts in mammalian species to environmental changes, such as periods of cooling and warming or the transition from heavily forested areas to grasslands. However, she notes that these environmental changes, while significant, did not reach the level of disruption caused by the mass extinction of dinosaurs. This distinction is crucial in understanding the resilience and adaptability of mammalian species in the face of environmental stressors.

Lyons further highlights the potential implications of these findings for modern conservation efforts: “This research could help identify areas or communities that are under particular stress. We may be entering a sixth mass extinction event, and if that’s the case, we might expect to see certain communities responding similarly to those after the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs.”

**Applying Historical Insights to Modern Conservation**:

The field of conservation paleobiology benefits greatly from tracking long-term changes in ecosystems, as it helps both scientists and the public grasp the ongoing biodiversity crises. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the mammalian age and provides a glimpse into possible future scenarios.

Shupinski emphasizes the practical applications of this research: “If we observe similar responses in the functional diversity of modern community structures, it could serve as a valuable conservation tool. We could identify communities that are experiencing the most significant disturbances and are at the highest risk of losing their ecological services and functions.”

**Collaborative Research Efforts**:

This study is a collaborative effort, with contributions from Peter Wagner, a professor of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Nebraska, and Felisa Smith from the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. Their combined expertise has yielded a deeper understanding of how past environmental changes have shaped the evolution of mammalian communities and what this might mean for the future of biodiversity on our planet.

Make Learning Count: Harnessing Feedback Loops for Business Success

**The Power of Collaboration: L&D and Business Leadership**:

In the rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to adapt and continuously improve is critical for success. Central to this adaptability are feedback loops – a concept that involves producing something, measuring the outcomes, and making improvements based on the data.  

Maintaining a strong partnership between Learning & Development (L&D) and business leadership is essential in today's fast-paced business world. This collaboration ensures that the people-capability agenda aligns seamlessly with the business strategy. Feedback loops are indispensable for any business to thrive, and L&D is no exception. By integrating feedback loops into learning strategies, L&D professionals can revolutionize how organizations cultivate talent and sustain a competitive advantage.

Modern L&D functions must develop dynamic feedback loops that align learning initiatives with ever-evolving business and talent needs. The feedback gathered shouldn’t be restricted to learning metrics alone; it should also encompass business metrics, HR data, employee surveys, and customer insights. This comprehensive feedback allows L&D to pinpoint areas for improvement and implement changes that drive meaningful shifts in behavior and performance.

In this article, we explore how senior L&D leaders can effectively leverage feedback loops to make data-driven decisions, refine learning strategies, and ensure they align with broader business goals.

**Business Strategy: The North Star of L&D**:

In any organization, business strategy is not just important—it’s everything. It serves as the compass that guides every function, including L&D. When business priorities shift, the L&D strategy must adapt accordingly. For example, during a digital transformation, L&D initiatives should be centered around equipping employees with the digital skills needed to support this transition.

Once companies identify their business priorities, it’s crucial to ensure that their employees are equipped to meet them. This requires developing a comprehensive skills framework that aligns with the organization’s strategic direction. Companies need to identify the most critical skills for various functions and roles—both current and future—and assess current employee skills in these areas. A systematic approach to skills assessment enables L&D to identify gaps and design targeted interventions to bridge them.

A strong partnership between L&D and business leadership is vital for ensuring that the people-capability agenda is aligned with the overall business strategy. As McKinsey & Company emphasizes, both parties should co-own the process of defining, prioritizing, designing, and securing funding for skills development programs. This ongoing feedback loop and partnership ensure that L&D initiatives remain agile and directly contribute to the company’s success, while also securing the necessary resources and support.

**Case Study: Retaining Talent Through a Skills-Based Framework**:

The London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) addressed high employee turnover by implementing a skills-based career framework. Internal surveys had identified limited career opportunities as a significant concern. To tackle this issue, LSEG launched Career Navigator, a software platform that empowers employees to explore available roles and the skills required for them. To support continuous learning, LSEG plans to integrate third-party learning content into the platform. This initiative aims to boost internal mobility by 15% and reduce external hiring costs by 20%.

Well-managed feedback loops ensure that Career Navigator stays aligned with business needs. Account managers provide weekly feedback on adoption and user experience, which helps improve employee engagement. HR teams collaborate quarterly on minor updates, such as job profiles, while project teams address medium-impact changes. Annual reviews ensure that the framework reflects the evolving needs of the business and industry.

**Norsk Hydro’s Approach to Skill Gaps**:

Norsk Hydro faced significant challenges with skill gaps and employee dissatisfaction regarding professional development opportunities. To address these issues, HR and L&D departments collaborated to implement AI-enabled skills technology. This innovative approach allowed them to identify skill gaps across the organization, develop a comprehensive skills library, and offer AI-driven learning recommendations.

With this technology, employees receive personalized development plans tailored to their specific needs. This strategy is expected to boost engagement, improve retention, and provide valuable insights for workforce planning. The success of Norsk Hydro's approach underscores the importance of a robust feedback loop between HR and L&D, essential for accessing accurate data and creating effective skills-building strategies.

**The Importance of Understanding Employee Needs**:

To craft effective strategies, organizations must prioritize understanding their most valuable asset: their employees. L&D initiatives should focus on enhancing employee engagement and performance by equipping them with necessary skills, access to digital learning tools, and connections with mentors or peers.

Qualitative analyses, such as staff surveys and focus groups, offer deep insights into employees' needs, challenges, and motivators. These insights not only help L&D continuously refine learning solutions but also inspire new ideas and innovations. Employees often provide unique perspectives that can drive experimentation and improvement, ensuring that learning solutions remain relevant and impactful.

**Case Study: The Red Bull Phenomenon**:

Advertising executive and author Rory Sutherland illustrates the power of understanding customer needs through the success of Red Bull. He recounts that when Red Bull was first introduced outside Thailand, it received a notably negative reaction from taste testers. Despite this, Red Bull sold over six billion cans annually.

The key takeaway from Red Bull's success is its focus on delivering benefits rather than just features. Rather than competing with Coca-Cola on taste and value, Red Bull marketed itself as a drink associated with an energetic, adventurous lifestyle. This approach created a strong emotional connection with consumers, fostering a loyal community that identifies with the brand’s values.

**Applying Brand Insights to L&D**:

The lessons from Red Bull’s marketing strategy are valuable for L&D professionals. Just as Red Bull understood and valued its customers’ opinions, L&D can benefit from a deep understanding of employee needs and preferences. By leveraging feedback and focusing on the benefits of learning programs, L&D can foster a strong connection with employees and drive meaningful engagement.

**Leveraging Feedback for Continuous Improvement**:

Harnessing feedback loops enables L&D leaders to develop dynamic, data-driven learning strategies that align with business goals. By collaborating with HR and business leaders, utilizing relevant data, and focusing on the employee experience, L&D can drive substantial improvements in both individual and organizational performance.

To begin, evaluate your current feedback mechanisms and identify areas for enhancement. Building strong partnerships across the organization and adapting to evolving business needs will help transform your learning initiatives into powerful drivers of business success. By continuously refining your strategies and staying attuned to employee needs, L&D can maintain its role as a crucial element of company culture and adaptability in a changing business landscape.

Pakistan celebrates its first Olympic medal in decades as javelin hero breaks Games record.Arshad Nadeem

 ### Pakistan Celebrates Historic Olympic Victory as Javelin Star Shatters Record:

Arshad Nadeem of Team Pakistan celebrates after winning gold in the men's javelin throw final in Paris on August 8, 2024. 

Brendan Moran/Sportsfile/Getty Images

**A Night of Triumph: Arshad Nadeem Wins Gold**:

In a moment of unprecedented national pride, Pakistan celebrated late into the night after javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem clinched the country’s first-ever Olympic medal in track and field. Nadeem's remarkable performance in Paris saw him achieve a Games record throw of 92.97 meters, securing the gold medal and breaking the previous Olympic record of 90.57 meters set by Norway’s Andreas Thorkildsen in Beijing 2008.

The normally cricket-obsessed nation stayed up past midnight to witness this historic achievement, marking Pakistan’s first Olympic medal since the men’s field hockey team won bronze at the Barcelona Games 32 years ago.

**Family Celebrations and National Festivities**:

Supporters and family members of Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem celebrate after his Olympic victory at Mian Channu in Khanewal district, Pakistan on August 9, 2024. 

Shahid Saeed Mirza/AFP/Getty Images

Nadeem’s family in Mian Channu, Punjab, was overwhelmed with joy. His brother, Shahid Nadeem, shared his elation with CNN, saying, “Our brother has won the gold medal, and I’ve lost my voice celebrating all night.” He added, “When he gets home, we will celebrate in a way that the world will never forget! We are simple people and will celebrate with kheer (local rice pudding) and whatever Allah gives us.”

The streets outside Nadeem’s home came alive with celebrations, including traditional drumming. His mother expressed her immense pride to local news, saying, “I am so happy. He has made Pakistan’s name proud, earned Pakistan a medal, and made its flag fly proudly.”

**A Record-Breaking Throw**:

Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem competes in the men's javelin throw final of the athletics event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on August 8, 2024. 

Andrej Isakovic/AFP/Getty Images

Nadeem’s victorious throw was not only a personal triumph but also a record-breaking achievement. His second throw of 92.97 meters surpassed the previous Olympic record, eliciting gasps of amazement from spectators and a jubilant reaction from Nadeem himself as he raised his arms in celebration.

**A Heartwarming Display of Sportsmanship**:

In a dramatic final, Nadeem outperformed India’s Neeraj Chopra, the reigning world champion, who took silver with a throw of 89.45 meters. Despite the historic rivalry between Pakistan and India, Nadeem and Chopra’s friendship shone through. The two athletes embraced each other after the results were announced, their flags draped over their shoulders, symbolizing a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect.

Arshad Nadeem of Pakistan and Neeraj Chopra of India embrace after their gold-silver medal finish at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. 

Tim Clayton/Corbis/Getty Images

### Triumph for the Nation: Nadeem’s Victory Uplifts Pakistan:

**A Historic Moment on the Horizon**:

As Pakistan eagerly awaits the moment Arshad Nadeem stands atop the Olympic podium to receive his gold medal, the nation reflects on the significance of this victory — the first Olympic gold for Pakistan since the men’s field hockey team triumphed in Los Angeles in 1984. This moment marks a monumental achievement, not just in sports but for the entire country.

Altamish Jiwa, a prominent Pakistani sports journalist, described Nadeem’s gold medal as a "humongous victory for all of Pakistan" in an interview with CNN. He emphasized how this triumph has lifted the nation’s spirits, offering a much-needed sense of pride and collective joy. The feeling of triumph and collective joy, which the country has been deprived of for many years, is not just on the sporting front but in everyday life,” Jiwa noted.

**A Journey of Perseverance and Achievement**:

Arshad Nadeem’s rise to Olympic glory has been a story of perseverance and dedication. Finishing fifth at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with a throw of 84.62 meters, Nadeem went on to win silver at the 2023 World Championships. His determination and hard work culminated in becoming the first Pakistani athlete to reach the final of any track and field event at the Olympic Games.

Nadeem has been candid about the challenges he faced competing on the world stage, especially in a country that lacks state-of-the-art facilities for track and field athletes. Despite these obstacles, his passion for the sport drove him to excel. Originally aspiring to be a cricketer, Nadeem discovered javelin in 2015, a decision he describes as "the best thing that happened" to him.

**Shifting the Focus to Athletics**:

Cricket, while unofficially the national sport of Pakistan, receives the lion’s share of funding and support. However, Nadeem’s victory has sparked a renewed interest in athletics, highlighting the need for better resources for athletes competing internationally. His win has initiated discussions on social media and across the country about the importance of supporting sports beyond cricket.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also acknowledged Nadeem’s remarkable achievement, taking to social media platform X to congratulate him: "You’ve made the whole nation proud, young man."

Nadeem’s victory is not just a personal triumph but a beacon of hope for Pakistan’s future in athletics, inspiring a new generation of athletes to aim for greatness.

Seven Steps to Manliness...

 ### Redefining Manliness: A Journey to Positive Masculinity:

**Introduction: Rethinking What It Means to Be Manly**:

Growing up, many of us were exposed to a narrow, often toxic idea of what it means to be "manly"—typically revolving around physical strength and a tough-guy persona. However, true manliness encompasses so much more than that. It’s about embracing qualities that make you not just a strong individual, but a compassionate, thoughtful, and confident human being. These steps are designed to help redefine what it means to be manly, encouraging men to find their own path to a positive and authentic masculinity. While many of these suggestions can apply to women too, they particularly resonate with the unique aspects of male physiology and psychology.

**1. Live with Integrity: Think for Yourself and Stay True to Your Values**:

The foundation of true manliness is integrity—living in a way that aligns with your values and beliefs. It’s about being strong and brave enough to act according to your own principles, rather than conforming to societal expectations or someone else’s idea of what a man "should" be. We all fall short at times, but growing into manliness is about consistently taking steps in the right direction. One way to reinforce this journey is by surrounding yourself with trusted friends and allies, such as a men’s group, where you can find support and encouragement.

**2. Find Purpose: Engage in Meaningful Work**:

While not everyone has the privilege of finding deeply satisfying paid work, it’s important to dedicate at least part of your life to a mission. This pursuit of meaningful work is a universal human need. Ignoring this aspect of your life can lead to feelings of emptiness and depression, which can spiral downward if left unaddressed. The good news is that it’s never too late to repair this brokenness with insight and determination.

**3. Practice Compassion: Be Kind and Avoid Harm**:

A key aspect of positive masculinity is compassion—being empathetic, kind, and mindful of the impact your actions have on others and the planet. It’s crucial to be aware of any privileges you may have and use them to support those who are less privileged. This requires a certain level of education about political and ethical issues, especially those that affect your immediate environment. While you can’t change the circumstances of your birth, you do have a responsibility to use your power wisely. By being aware of your social and cultural background, you can make a conscious effort to be an ally to those who need support, contributing to a more equal and just world.

**4. Embrace Your Strengths and Weaknesses with Humility**:

True manliness comes from knowing and accepting yourself—your strengths and your flaws—without arrogance or shame. Growing out of adolescent fantasies of either grandeur or worthlessness allows you to see yourself as a unique individual, no better or worse than anyone else. The need to feel superior often stems from a deeper sense of inadequacy. A man who truly knows and accepts himself stands on solid ground; he is confident because he cannot be easily shamed or undermined. From this foundation, all good things—genuine love, intimacy, friendship, and community—can grow. Such a man is not afraid of conflict, isn’t easily threatened, and doesn’t always need to be "right" or "win."

**5. Provide Love, Security, and Safety for Your Family**:

At the core of being a man is the responsibility to provide love, security, and support to those who depend on you—your children, your partner, and your family. This doesn’t mean being a saint or attempting to save the world, nor does it mean being a doormat. It’s about recognizing opportunities to be a positive force in the lives of those closest to you, offering unconditional support without expecting anything in return. By putting family first, you not only fulfill your basic responsibilities but also experience the satisfaction of doing what feels right, purely because it’s the right thing to do.

**6. Love Bravely and Adventurously**:

Loving someone is inherently risky, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. The fear of rejection or heartbreak can be daunting, but when you value yourself and aren’t dependent on others for your self-esteem, you can navigate these emotions with grace. Small doses of insecurity or jealousy are normal and manageable, leading to deeper affirmations of love rather than destructive behaviors like anger or aggression. Ideally, your partner will love you back with the same courageous spirit. If not, it’s better for everyone to recognize when it’s time to move on, knowing that you’ve given your best.

**7. Respect All, But Stand Against Abuse**:

Respecting others begins with respecting yourself. When you find yourself disliking someone, it’s often a reflection of inner conflict. By reflecting on this, you can learn from it and make peace with yourself. Everyone deserves acceptance, but that doesn’t mean tolerating harmful behavior. If someone’s actions cross a line, it’s important to calmly and respectfully communicate your boundaries. This approach increases the chances of being heard and respected. However, if there’s no change, it’s okay to distance yourself from that person, knowing you’ve done your part.

**Conclusion: The Many Paths to Being a Good Man**:

There are countless ways to be a good man, and these seven steps are just one approach. By following these principles and offering compassion to yourself and others, you’ll find that you’re on a path that leads to authentic and positive masculinity. In moments when you lose your connection with these ideals, a gentle reminder is all it takes to get back on track.

Machine Learning Breakthrough in Forestry Management

#### First-Ever Regional Forest Mapping with 1-Meter Precision:

Hamdi Zurqani, assistant professor for the College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Arkansas at Monticello and researcher with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, developed the first high-resolution forest canopy cover dataset for an entire state, providing valuable insights for forest management and conservation to a major economic sector in Arkansas.

**FAYETTEVILLE, Ark.** — A groundbreaking dataset is offering an unprecedented, detailed view of Arkansas’ forests, measured at an impressive 1-meter resolution. This achievement marks a significant milestone in forest management and conservation, providing essential data to a major economic sector in the state.

Hamdi Zurqani, an assistant professor at the University of Arkansas at Monticello and a researcher with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, has pioneered the first high-resolution forest canopy cover dataset for an entire state. “I envisioned creating a tool that could be relied upon by researchers, conservationists, and policymakers alike,” Zurqani said. “No such data existed before on a statewide scale—previous efforts were limited to site-specific projects.”

The uniqueness of this dataset lies in its 1-meter resolution, a stark contrast to the more common 30-meter spatial resolution datasets typically derived from satellite imagery. Zurqani, who is part of the Arkansas Forest Resources Center—a partnership between the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and UAM—highlighted the importance of this advancement. The experiment station serves as the research division of the Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.

#### The Importance of Forest Canopy Cover:

Forest canopy cover refers to the extent to which tree crowns form a continuous layer over the ground when viewed from above. This detailed metric is vital for monitoring forest health, as the canopy plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat, and water regulation.

Accurate mapping of tree coverage is essential for scientists to monitor and manage forest resources effectively, ensuring the sustainability of these ecosystems. Additionally, this information can be pivotal in assessing wildfire risks, tracking threats from pests and climate change, and aiding in urban planning initiatives.

According to the latest Arkansas Agricultural Profile, forests cover 57% of the state. Timber was one of Arkansas’ top commodities in 2021, generating approximately $409 million in cash farm receipts.

#### Harnessing the Power of Machine Learning:

Zurqani’s groundbreaking dataset was created using advanced machine learning techniques and the Google Earth Engine, a cloud-based platform designed for processing and analyzing large-scale geospatial data. Machine learning, a branch of artificial intelligence, enables computers to learn from data, identify patterns, make predictions, and adapt over time without explicit programming.

By leveraging the high-resolution aerial imagery from the National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP), Zurqani applied and tested his methods to produce this detailed forest canopy cover dataset. NAIP, administered by the United States Department of Agriculture, captures high-resolution imagery of agricultural areas during the growing season. This imagery supports various agricultural and environmental applications, including crop monitoring, land use assessment, and now, thanks to Zurqani’s work, forest management on an unprecedented scale.

### Advancing Forest Monitoring with High-Resolution Data:

#### Precision in Forest Canopy Assessment:

The new 1-meter spatial resolution dataset for Arkansas forests represents a significant advancement in the accuracy of canopy structure and composition assessments. According to Hamdi Zurqani, this level of detail is crucial for effectively monitoring changes in forest dynamics, pinpointing vulnerable areas, and implementing targeted conservation strategies. Zurqani envisions that this high-resolution dataset could set a new standard for forest canopy measurement.

“The future potential of this dataset is immense,” Zurqani stated. “We can use it to analyze all forest areas, identify healthy versus diseased trees, and even detect trees in urban environments due to its precision.” This capability will allow for more targeted and effective forest management practices.

#### Expanding Horizons: A Vision for Nationwide and Global Impact:

Arkansas is home to 502 cities and 75 counties, and Zurqani's research has included evaluations of forests and tree-covered areas within these urban and rural regions. While the current focus is on Arkansas, Zurqani hopes to extend this innovative methodology across all 50 states, providing a comprehensive tool for forest management nationwide.

“Machine learning and cloud computing technologies have proven capable of producing reliable, high-resolution forest cover datasets,” Zurqani noted. “These techniques hold the potential to enhance forest management and conservation efforts globally.”

#### Stay Connected with Division of Agriculture Research:

For more information on research conducted by the Division of Agriculture, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station website. Follow the Division on X at @ArkAgResearch, subscribe to the *Food, Farms and Forests* podcast, and sign up for the monthly newsletter, *Arkansas Agricultural Research Report*. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit [uada.edu](https://uada.edu). Follow us on X at @AgInArk for updates.

For inquiries about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit [uaex.uada.edu](https://uaex.uada.edu).

#### About the Division of Agriculture:

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture aims to strengthen agriculture, communities, and families by connecting trusted research with the adoption of best practices.

The Division of Agriculture is one of 20 entities within the University of Arkansas System, with offices in all 75 counties in Arkansas and faculty on five system campuses. The Division offers all its Extension and Research programs and services without discrimination based on race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital . It is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

Five reasons to take your homeschool lessons outdoors

Homeschooling is on the rise, with research from autumn 2023 revealing that about 92,000 children are now in elective home education—more than one in 100 children! Home education doesn't have to be confined to the indoors. In fact, taking lessons outdoors offers numerous benefits. Here are five compelling reasons to encourage outdoor learning in your homeschooling routine.

#### 1. It's an Alternative Way of Learning:

Many children thrive in alternative learning environments outside the traditional classroom, such as outdoor settings or home-based schooling. These environments provide ample stimuli and opportunities for hands-on learning. Without a rigid curriculum, homeschooling allows children the freedom to learn in ways that suit them best. Outdoor learning fosters the development of skills like initiative, problem-solving, and independence, reducing pressure and encouraging natural interests and abilities.

#### 2. Supports Your Child’s Mental Health:

According to a report by the Department for Education, 13% of parents who homeschool cite mental health as a primary reason. Spending time outdoors can significantly benefit mental and physical well-being. Mind reports that green spaces improve mood, reduce stress and loneliness, and enhance connections to nature. These connections can lead to higher levels of personal growth. Take advantage of nature's mental health benefits by incorporating outdoor lessons.

#### 3. Socialization Opportunities:

Homeschooling doesn't mean isolation. There are plenty of ways for homeschooled children to socialize at levels similar to those in formal schooling environments. Outdoor or activity hubs, such as educational centers, provide excellent opportunities for your child to make new friends. They also offer you, as a parent and educator, a chance to connect with other homeschooling families and become part of a supportive community.

#### 4. Trying New Things:

One of the great benefits of homeschooling is the flexibility to introduce outdoor adventure activities whenever you choose. These activities can include risky play, which is vital for a child's development. Activities like climbing trees or archery help children safely challenge themselves and experience risk, fostering confidence and curiosity. Even if you don't have such facilities at home, visiting centers with high ropes, windsurfing, skiing, and more can provide these valuable experiences.

#### 5. Developing Soft Skills:

Outdoor learning has been shown to boost confidence, communication, motivation, and social skills. If you want to develop your child’s soft skills, outdoor learning is an excellent option. Activities like shelter building can enhance independence and problem-solving abilities, while orienteering can develop leadership, and obstacle courses can improve communication skills.

By taking homeschool lessons outdoors, you can provide a well-rounded and enriching educational experience that supports your child's overall development. So, lace up your shoes, step outside, and discover the endless possibilities that outdoor learning has to offer.