Increasing the Use of East Bethel/Cedar Creek Community Schools' Nature Area Sites by St. Francis # 15 Teachers Enrolled in an On-site, Outdoor, Nature Study Group

Abstract

Creating a sense of place and preserving a sense of wonder in children is an important step to using the outdoors as a context for learning and gaining environmental literacy. Research has revealed guided investigation in a natural setting is concrete, sensory and thus developmentally appropriate. Bonding with nature is key to feeling ownership of local landscape. Frequent access to nature has been identified as one of the major predictors of environmental sensitivity and responsible land stewardship. Over a ten-year period, a core of "Green Team" teachers, administrators, and parents established East Bethel/Cedar Creek Community Schools' diverse Nature Area Sites. This project was designed to increase use of sites, reveal the value of using the outdoors as a context for learning and gaining environmental literacy. Twenty-two teachers, grades K-8, participated in professional development. The fall Nature Study Group provided experience using the on-site, outdoor nature areas. Exploration infused Minnesota Academic Standards in Science (2004) and Environmental Literacy Scope and Sequence for Minnesota (2003). Inquiry and student management techniques were demonstrated. Site-specific environmental education materials were acquired for use and review. St. Francis District # 15 Teacher Academy provided monetary motivation for professional development. Participants filled out pre and post surveys to determine site use, barriers inhibiting use, and knowledge of state environmental literacy and science standards. An evaluation questionnaire and participant's comments, revealed teachers felt more confident in taking students outdoors, wanted more outdoor classes in the future, valued connecting children to nature, were thankful for materials and the opportunity to share ideas. Participants planned to infuse use of the EBCS/CCCS Nature Area Sites into their curriculum in the future. Survey results indicated barriers to using the EBCS/CCCS Nature Area Sites, such as student behavior, Minnesota Academic Standards, EE knowledge, and EE resources, had decreased. Lack of time remained a barrier. Comments and post survey results suggested participants had increased the use of the EBCS/CCCS Nature Area Sites, during the 2004-2005 school years.