Sprouts
Education from the Ground Up
Effects of Outdoor Education for Children in California
This study conducted by the American Institute for Research explored implementing Environmental Education programs for sixth graders struggling with either behavioral or grade related issues within the schooling program: labelled as “at risk”. After the 6 to 10 week program, the children showed statistically higher co-operative and conflict resolution skills. Teachers also reported improvements in all 8 areas of behavioral performance, as well as gains in self esteem, relationships with peers, and motivation for learning. Parents also observed an increase in the childrens environmentally friendly activities such as recycling..
Learning to Love the Natural World Enough to Protect it
A study conducted by Louise Chawla, exploring the different sources of motivation concerning environmental consciousness. The study explored a variety of sources, categorizing received answers into categories ranging from Organizations, to Family, to Education. What seemed to have the largest impact on the way that her interviewees viewed the environment was “Family”, mentors and spaces that really spoke to them as children, and fueled their exploration and consciousness concerning the environment.