The Dana Brown Overnight Center strives to provide equitable access to outdoor experiences that grow learners' comfort and connection with the natural world.

The Dana Brown Overnight Center believes in

Nature for ALL

The Dana Brown Overnight Center believes in

Best Practices in Education

In designing our programs, we focus on 4 research-backed principles (these principles have been adapted from the University of California's BEETLES design principles, which can be found here):

1.)  Authentic Engagement with Nature:  Instead of lecturing, sharing facts, or using models to demonstrate, we seek to facilitate experiences in which learners directly interact with the natural world.

2.)  Thinking like Scientists:  We believe the best way to learn science is by practicing the skills scientists use, like making close and careful observations, asking thoughtful questions, and seeking connections.

3.)  Culture of Discussion:  The best learning is often a social act.  We intentionally devote time to fostering and growing a culture of discussion with our learners.

4.)  Culturally Relevant Learning Environments:  People deserve to bring their full selves to any learning experience.  We respect the personal expertise that each learner brings with them and actively seek opportunities for learners to connect their experience at the DBOC with both their academic and personal lives. 

The Dana Brown Overnight Center believes in

The Transformative Power of Spending Time in Nature