Bringing Nature Into Learning: Environmental Neuroscience for Inclusive Classrooms

Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, enhance focus, and improve memory—benefits confirmed by emerging research in environmental neuroscience. Yet many students, particularly those in urban or inclusive settings, may have limited opportunities to experience the outdoors. In this session, Luis Pérez will share practical strategies for bringing the restorative power of nature into classrooms through technology, design, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. Participants will explore how virtual field trips, immersive media, natural soundscapes, and classroom design inspired by the outdoors can foster a sense of calm and curiosity for all learners. Examples will demonstrate how small adjustments—such as integrating nature-based imagery into lessons or encouraging students to connect their learning to natural environments—can improve attention, executive functioning, and emotional regulation. Attendees will leave with ready-to-implement ideas, tools, and resources that bridge environmental neuroscience and inclusive pedagogy, making the benefits of nature accessible to every learner.