Each year, Muddy Sneakers partners with schools across North Carolina to bring science alive through hands-on, outdoor learning. At the end of each year, programs are evaluated by researchers at NC State University under the leadership of Kathryn Stevenson, an expert in environmental education and youth development. Their independent study of the 2024 – 2025 school year highlights what many of our teachers and students already know: outdoor learning has a lasting impact.
What the NC State Evaluation Found
NC State’s evaluation explored four key areas of student outcomes:
- Connection to Nature – Students reported a stronger sense of care for and connection to the natural world, often expressing a desire to protect it.
- Science Learning and Classroom Performance – Students improved their knowledge of NC Science Standards. In addition, they grew curious about science concepts and demonstrated more enthusiasm for discovery.
- Health and Well-Being – Students shared that they enjoyed being active outdoors and felt better emotionally after time outside.
- Learning Engagement – Teachers noted their students were more focused, better able to solve problems, and demonstrated stronger engagement in learning.
Teachers and students alike reported overall satisfaction with Muddy Sneakers experiences.
Why This Matters
Research has long shown that time outdoors supports both academic achievement and personal growth. A meta-analysis by Becker et al. (2017) found that outdoor adventure programs improve not only environmental knowledge but also personal and social development. Another study published in Frontiers in Psychology demonstrates how connecting students with nature builds lasting stewardship behaviors and enhances classroom engagement.
The NC State evaluation adds to a growing body of evidence: when learning moves outside, students thrive. They develop curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper sense of belonging in their communities and natural surroundings.
What Teachers Are Seeing
Many teachers in the study described Muddy Sneakers as a spark for their students—helping them see science not just as something in a textbook, but as something alive, all around them. One teacher wrote, “By taking students out of the classroom and into nature our students are able to observe, investigate, and make real-world connections with their science curriculum. Through this outdoor experience, students develop a stronger connection to nature, enhancing both their academic skills and overall well being.”
The Bigger Picture
Outdoor education isn’t just an “extra.” It’s a proven, research-backed approach to deepening learning and well-being. Muddy Sneakers is helping shape future scientists, problem-solvers, and stewards of the environment – students who feel joy in learning and responsibility for the world around them.As we celebrate another year of impact, we’re grateful to NC State University and Dr. Kathryn Stevenson’s team for confirming what we see every day in the field: the best classroom is the one that’s outside.