Applying Conservation Psychology Amy Weidensaul, Audubon Pennsylvania

Agenda:

• What I do

• Applying CPI

learning:

• After-school

programs

• Nature

Playground

Engaging People in Conservation

Audubon’s mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity.

Conservation psychology is the

study of the reciprocal relationships

between humans and nature, with

a particular focus on how to

encourage conservation of the

natural world.

Effective EE

Effective Environmental Education programs that promote

pro-environmental awareness, attitudes, intent to act and

behaviors consist of:

• Extended duration – more than one time

• Experiential and hands-on

• Frequent direct exposure to nature

• Involve students actively and provide practice in action

• Local and relevant

• Real world application

• Peer-to-peer learning

• Supportive adult role

models

Dillon, et al., 2007; Heimlich & Ardoin, 2008; Hungerford & Volk, 1990; Leeming, Dwyer, Porter & Coburn 1993 Stern, et al., 2014; NAAEE Guidelines for Excellence; Rickinson2001; Zelezny 1999; Zint, 2013

After-school Environmental Club

Longer duration:

• Meet weekly

after school

• Entire school

year

• Weekend

events & trips

• Multiple year

participation

• Hands-on and interactive

learning experiences

• Project based activities

• Student driven

• Real-world learning

• Relevance

• Practice skills

• Develop competency

• Frequent experiences

in nature

• Social learning

• Peer-to-peer

learning

• Community

connections

• Supportive adult

role models

As educators we can’t just provide information.

We must provide opportunities for individuals to

learn about, through, and from action.

(social practice theory)

Sandy Powell, 2015

Nature Playground

Thank you!

Amy Weidensaul

aweidensaul@audubon.org