Term
Fall 2021
Capstone
Capstone Project
Degree Name
MAED: NSEE
Facilitator(s)
Laura Halldin
Content Expert
Henry Huber
Abstract
Environmental education and creative arts such as music have complemented each other for many years. This capstone project investigates the relationship between the two disciplines by asking the question: How can environmental educators use music to increase students’ understanding of the natural world? Focusing on the professional development of environmental educators and other informal educators is important because these individuals will have many opportunities to promote connection between students and the natural world throughout their careers. Musicians and songwriters such as the Banana Slug String Band and Joe Reilly provide invaluable examples of musical experiences that both inform and entertain their audience. The literature review reveals similarities between students’ experiences with nature and music; the growth of social emotional learning and compassion for both the environment and their peers are particularly notable. Research methods used during the course of this project were primarily qualitative, focusing on contemporary theories in music education, environmental education, and the integration between the two fields. The culmination of this research and project development includes a living resource manual of songs and activities that educators may explore, expand, and share with students.
Project Type
Professional Development
Keywords
Adult Education, Environmental Studies, Music, Staff Development
Recommended Citation
Nyenhuis, Walker, "Songs And Salamanders: Investigating The Relationship Between Music And Environmental Education" (2021). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects. 743.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_cp/743
dc_type
text
dc_publisher
DigitalCommons@Hamline
dc_format
application/pdf
dc_source
School of Education Student Capstone Projects