Author

Kim Corson

Term

Summer 2022

Capstone

Capstone Project

Degree Name

MAED: NSEE

Facilitator(s)

Tia Clasen

Content Expert

Meredith Bower

Abstract

This capstone project sought to answer the question, what are effective methods for teaching middle school students about renewable energy at residential environmental learning centers? Research shows that participation in a residential learning experience helps students retain knowledge and learn in a more hands-on and real world context. However, research connecting a residential environmental learning experience and renewable energy education is limited. This project involved creating a curriculum that utilizes effective methods for teaching and learning about renewable energy with the goal to help grow students energy and environmental literacy. The lesson targets middle school students but can be adapted for both older and younger students. The curriculum will primarily be used at McDowell Environmental Center, but could be used at other environmental education programs with slight modifications. The research into effective methods and strategies for teaching included: experiential learning, inquiry-based learning, hands-on experiences, place-based education, journaling, use of models and teaching aids, and utilizing role models. All of these methods are additionally viewed through the lens of utilizing the outdoors as the main teaching space. The goal of this project is to help students better understand renewable energy topics, while connecting those ideas to the outdoors and natural world.

Project Type

Curriculum

Keywords

Teachers/ Teaching, Environmental Education, Renewable Energy Education

dc_type

text

dc_publisher

DigitalCommons@Hamline

dc_format

application/pdf

dc_source

School of Education Student Capstone Projects

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Education Commons

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