Term
Summer 2020
Capstone
Capstone Project
Degree Name
MAED: NSEE
Facilitator(s)
Susan Manikowski and Jana Lo Bello Miller
Content Expert
Alaina Larkin
Abstract
Research has repeatedly indicated that exposure to nature and the outdoors has a range of physical, mental, emotional, social, and educational benefits. The research question that is addressed in the work of this capstone is: Which middle school environmental education lessons aligned with science standards enable students to connect with the natural world? In reviewing causes of lack of exposure to nature, the benefits that being outside can offer, and closely reviewing both Minnesota standards as well as environmental education goals, the aim of this capstone is to incorporate environmental education into middle school. The curriculum includes units of study in nature journaling, water, climate, and trees. The goal of the project is to help students create a personal connection to nature and the outdoors, and help develop students into environmentally-literate individuals who understand they can make an impact in stewardship of current and future environmental issues. Providing students time to interact with the natural world will foster their sense of place and inspire a move to action in bringing a community together with a sense of stewardship.
Keywords
Science, Environmental Education, Science Standards
Recommended Citation
Brant, Kari, "Environmental Education Lessons Connecting Middle School Students to the Natural World" (2020). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects. 552.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_cp/552
dc_type
text
dc_publisher
DigitalCommons@Hamline
dc_format
application/pdf
dc_source
School of Education Student Capstone Projects