Nature Masterminds: Learn from Nature
Biomimicry-centered curriculum for educational institutions, educators and self-learners
Noticing Nature is the First Step to Discovery.
Nature Masterminds takes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) learning outdoors to discover what nature has to teach. Inspired by a young explorer named Caroline, our modules take K-8 learners on a journey to uncover how nature’s secrets can help make the world a better place. At the core of the curriculum is learning biomimicry principles and lessons. The study of biomimicry looks to living things found in nature to 'mimic' solutions to real-life human challenges based on how nature functions, adapts, survives and thrives. Innovations such as Velcro (thistle plants), wind turbines (whales), and robotics for the Mars Rover (sidewinder snake) have been developed by scientists and researchers who observed the functions of plants and animals. Young explorers will also discover patterns in nature that can be used to spark ideas used in art and design.
We are discovering ways nature can help us solve human challenges.
Nature Masterminds learn to ask “What Would Nature Do?” and "What Can I Learn From Nature?" Equipped with the knowledge of how to think like a Nature Mastermind, our own backyards can provide boundless examples of living solutions, which makes this program accessible and customizable to students wherever they live. Our curriculum, camps and experiences can be used as individual modules or build upon each other to create a broader offering that culminates in a design challenge where Nature Masterminds use their own observations to solve or improve existing problems and maybe even design something entirely new. The Nature Masterminds modules provide a fun and meaningful way to bring together STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) and future-focused learning for grades K-8 grades.
The Caroline Kramer Faust Foundation was proud to partner with the Great Lakes Science Center to bring this first-of-its-kind summer camp curriculum to Northeast Ohio.
Our biomimicry-based camp was part of the Eco-STEM camp for grades 4-8 and the Natural Problem Solvers camp for grades Kindergarten-3.
Our biomimicry-based camp was part of the Eco-STEM camp for grades 4-8 and the Natural Problem Solvers camp for grades Kindergarten-3.
If you are an educator or institution that would like to offer this Nature Masterminds: Learn from Nature curriculum to your students or membership, please email: [email protected].
For parents or adults interested in Biomimicry, please head over to the Great Lakes Biomimicry website to learn more: