Term
Summer 8-7-2016
Capstone
Thesis
Degree Name
MAED: NSEE
Primary Advisor/Dissertation Chair
Dan Loritz
Secondary Advisor/Reader One
Jackie DeBatista
Peer-Reviewer/Reader Two
Becky Stokes Lambert
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative research study was to examine the ways in which the Illinois Master Naturalist program affected adult learners’ connection to local natural areas and the development of an ecological identity. Participants in the Illinois Master Naturalist Program were interviewed to determine their experience in the program. During the interview they were asked to describe their connections to nature and their ecological identity prior to and after participation in the program. While more research is needed, it was concluded from the data that the Master Naturalist program did enable adult learners to develop a greater connection to local natural areas and increased their awareness of their own ecological identity.
Research Methodology
Interview, Narrative, Program Evaluation
Keywords
Adult Education, Environmental Studies
Recommended Citation
Sjoquist, Laura, "Increased Connection to Nature and Development of Ecological Identity in the Illinois Master Naturalist Program" (2016). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations. 4171.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_all/4171