The Coalition for Natural Learning (CNL) is a collaboration between Texas Tech University faculty, Texas state agencies, departments, and organizations. The coalition was created as a more formalized recognition of the ongoing multidisciplinary efforts between Dr. Kristi Gaines (Department of Design), Dr. Malinda Colwell (Human Development and Family Studies), Dr. Charles Klein, and Dr. Muntazar Monsur (Landscape Architecture). CNL engages with its partners through research, teaching, service, outreach & engagement through many forms such as publications and multidisciplinary partnerships.
The CNL has developed a number of strategic relationships and partnerships and each member of the team has expertise to contribute to the initiative. CNL has 1) created an OLE! Design and OLE! Inspector Guide, 2) developed materials to be used for statewide trade shows and presentations, 3) developed and implemented curriculum to train designers in best practices, 4) recruited designers and provided technical assistance, 5) served on the statewide OLE! leadership team, and 6) developed presentations shared with Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas Association of Young Children, and other groups as requested. The work through the coalition is providing state agencies, community leaders, administrators, educators, students, and parents resources about utilizing natural environments to promote the socio-emotional, physical, and cognitive development of children. Texas Tech University will benefit by creating stronger multidisciplinary connections that can benefit the training of graduate and undergraduate students.