Natural Resources Conservation 597EE - ST- Environmental Education

The relationship of humans with non-human nature has been changing dramatically over the last several decades, particularly in the United States. The amount of time Americans spend outdoors in nature has been steadily declining since at least 1970 to an all-time low of just 3-5 hours per week. The so-called "nature connection" is being lost and, with it, so is our society's capacity for environmental stewardship. In this class we will examine the field of environmental education, from theories and philosophies of engaging people with nature to pedagogies and actual practices of out in the real world, including in our communities. For students with an interest in environmental conservation and sustainability.