Field Trip to Dr. Konkel’s From Scratch Farmstead

When taking Fundamental Earth System Science (EVS 111) with Assistant Professor in Environmental Science Dr. Julie Konkel, students can expect to engage in unique and hands-on opportunities to learn about the earth. On March 25, students in EVS 111 traveled from Maryville College to Konkel’s very own farm: From Scratch Farmstead.

While walking through Konkel’s farm, students learned about ecosystems, sustainable farming practices and the realities of being a farmer. They even had the opportunity to bottle-feed Konkel’s goats. Catherine Money (‘29) explained how the trip enhanced her learning.

“I have always loved being around animals, so I was super excited. I find that being in more of a hands-on environment makes it much easier to stay engaged and focused on what we are learning about.”

Students are not the only ones with this belief; Konkel, supported by scientific evidence, finds that first-hand experiences enhance learning.

“Studies have shown that memories with emotion have the most retention. I believe there is a higher probability of information being retained and learned with hands-on opportunities. It’s a big part of my pedagogy,” Konkel said.

Konkel continues to have goals for her students. “My hope is that it makes materials digestible, more hands-on and less stimulating. I want to move away from lecture, quiz, repeat.”

Going to the From Scratch Farmstead has not been the only opportunity for students to actively experience Earth. Students also went to the College Woods’ creeks and rivers to test water quality, and there will be more field labs occurring at the end of the semester, according to Konkel’s syllabus. 

“I am always like, ‘Let’s go see it.’ It is a brain break and learning in one,” Konkel said.

Academic benefit is not the only thing that contributes to Konkel’s decision for these activities – it also helps strengthen student-professor relationships.

“[These activities] make me more accessible. I like for them to see me as a person. It makes the learning experience more open,” Konkel said.

Even students who are not majoring in environmental science appreciate the benefits of Konkel’s approach to learning. Psychology student Sierra Harvey (‘28) expands on this message.

“It’s always valuable to be aware of the environment you are living in, even if you don’t plan on working in that field. Dr. Konkel is an amazing professor who always makes sure her students are enjoying what they’re learning,” Harvey said.

These experiences and Konkel’s commitment to educating students have had a lasting impact on students who take a class with her.

“I would 100 percent recommend this class to others. I love Dr. Konkel and her teaching style, and I think this is a great alternative for students who are not biology or chemistry majors,” Money said.

Konkel hopes that these experiences help students make memories that will last a lifetime.

“There is a quote from Albert Einstein that goes, ‘Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.’ I think this quote couldn’t be more true,” Konkel said. “I hope that through these experiences, students will be able to hold onto a positive memory and be able to look back on it well after college.”

(Left to Right) Loki, Moonshine, Ed and Dr. Julie Konkel are ready to teach the class about life at Konkel’s very own farm, From Scratch Farmstead.

Jack, the guardian dog of the From Scratch Farmstead, letting down his guard with Dr. Julie Konkel.