One of the most important conservation strategies available to us is the creation of a deep consciousness of Nature in the minds and hearts of the world’s population – especially our youth. In doing so, we leave a legacy for future generations that will serve to guide young people along a pathway of preserving and sustaining Nature for the benefit of all life on Earth.
There have been some wonderful writings by my cadre of readers about environmental education including Scott Sampson who wrote about education and sustainability in a wonderful piece called the Whirlpool of Life.
More recently, I am honored to work with Deb Perryman, an Elgin, Illinois high school teacher who, among many honors, received the 2004 Illinois Teacher of the Year award and the 2014 Environmental Educator of the Year award by the Environmental Education Association of Illinois. She was recognized for implementing environmental education in and out of the classroom, including using 35 acres of natural space outside of Elgin High School as an instructional tool. Deb’s story is documented in a PBS video.. Her environmental education teaching style uses both indoor and outdoor classrooms.
I have been inspired by both Scott and Deb to share some my experience and resources as an environmental educator. This section of my blog site invites you to explore and use my material and resources as you develop and implement your own environmental education programs.
First, I offer selected blog posts that you are welcome to utilize for your program either as idea generators or as student projects, discussions, or debates.
Please click this link to view the blog resources that are available to you .
Second, I provide an expanded and complete lesson set that focuses on connections in Nature. To receive your copy, click the image of the PDF book at the upper right corner of this page.
It is my hope that those of you who are scientists, naturalists, teachers, docents, or mentors will work with me by guiding and critiquing the ongoing development of the material offered here. Please let me know of your interest by making your comments in the email form provided in the “About Me” section of this blog site.