First-year students in the seminar course “Environmental Problem-Solving” have held frequent discussions about how pesticides end up in the food chain, but they are most excited about lessons that take them outside the classroom, such as kayaking and making a potato gun that shoots clear across a football field.

“I want to get them tinkering in order to rekindle the spark of childish curiosity that will help them find innovative solutions to the problems they will solve as future leaders,” says Assistant Professor of Environmental Policy and Science Kevin Harrison.

The seminar, one of 33 offered this fall, capitalizes on a recent resurgence of environmental awareness. Students are required to read “Silent Spring” by Rachel Carson. Written in 1962, the book sparked controversy over the use of pesticides and launched the modern environmental movement.

Peer mentor Kate Chilson ’07 says the environmental movement is again picking up steam among students.

“Students are interested and engaged in the material, are active in class discussions, and many are planning to join the College’s Environmental Action Club too,” says the Environmental Policy and Philosophy double major, who attends and organizes first-year seminar classes while serving as a guide in all aspects of student life.

Once each week, guest speakers present a variety of issues for what Harrison calls “College Life 101.” From time management and nutrition to economic basics, this section of the course is intended to help students make the transition into the adult world.

“The guest speakers always have something interesting to say,” says Robert Harker ’10.

Both sections of the course rely on an interactive classroom environment, discussion being the key to understanding concepts as varied as population growth, biodiversity and sustainable agriculture.

“I’m more of a guide on the side than a sage on a stage,” Harrison says. “So, if students are thinking and talking about the subject, there’s more of a chance they’ll learn.”