Open Access

This discussion paper aims at presenting examples of digitally-supported teaching formats concerning biodiversity- and ecosystem-related content at Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development (HNEE). Thus, the paper encourages reflections about these teaching formats, but also the associated challenges and limitations. Introductory aspects about the role of digital teaching in education for sustainable development are followed by a brief recapitulation of important trends regarding digitalization in biodiversity- and ecosystem-related teaching at HNEE prior to the Corona crisis. Selected examples are used to illustrate a Corona-induced burst of digitalization. A following chapter focuses on the further-development of digital teaching formats as catalyzed by the Corona crisis, as well as reflections about the implementation of these formats in the everyday teaching routines at HNEE. These include gamification elements on digital devices in the field, the use of web apps with georeferenced databases, various digital camera systems particularly in bee education, and newly developed digital-interactive educational trails. The latter focus on the indicator group of birds; not only because birds are highly relevant to nature conservation and land use and are extremely well-studied, but also because birds appear ideal from a didactic point of view. The publication also deals with the use of species identification apps and attempts a critical reflection in respect thereof. In the following, the opportunities and risks related with digital formats in ecological, nature conservation and biodiversity-related teaching at HNEE are reflected on. The paper concludes that looking at a monitor might block or hinder a person`s ability to view and appreciate nature, but it might also expand and enrich this view. The latter is the case when digital information accompanies and deepens a person`s own experiences of nature. This can be achieved when digital formats are understood for what they are: powerful tools, but never a replacement for peoples` "hands on" nature.