Fall 2010
Field Investigations and Teaching:
A Practicum

The semester begins Sept. 8 and ends Dec. 12, 2010

Click here for course flyer

Click here for course syllabus

Instructors – Bryan Wood, the staff of the Audubon Center
plus representatives of other significant organizations and charter schools.

Cost for entire semester: $6,800

Students will develop skills in the following areas of National interest: Education - Environment as an Integrating Context Forestry - Certified forest management Energy - Sustainable Energy planning Expedition planning .

Philosophy: It is our belief that the best way for students to acquire knowledge and prepare for challenges in their life and work is to give them real world situations, to guide and facilitate learning, and to allow them a chance to experience success. This belief takes form when we apply the EIC (Environment as an Integrating Context) approach that focuses on project-based, inquiry-style learning that is student-centered and ends in action steps.

The process provides both knowledge and the skills to apply the knowledge. It gives the students an investment in their learning – it provides them with a chance to demonstrate their capabilities in planning, experimentation, and action steps. We hope that we will be creating graduates with skills and leadership for the next steps in their life.

 

Month 1 – Forest and Plant Communities In this context the students will examine certified forest, and explore management of the land that emphasizes the need for increasing natural biodiversity, which reflects on the historic natural landscape. We will work with the certifying agencies (Forest Stewardship Council and Institute of Agriculture and Trade Policy). It will be an active month of exploring and learning about the natural landscape, researching possibilities and talking with a variety of experts to gain a variety of opinions. You will explore coniferous and deciduous forests and learn about their complex ecosystems. This month also includes a trip to the BWCA.

Month 2 – Outdoor Education Practicum. • Real opportunities to impart knowledge, explore outdoor curriculum and test theories of learning and leadership. • Students will work with elementary through high school aged students • The students will observe, co-teach, teach and evaluate classes.

Month 3 – Renewable Energy and Sustainability • Visit sustainable living and renewable energy sites • Investigate resources and materials related to sustainability and energy • Plan the final experience – a 2 week field study expedition

Month 4 - Two-week Field Expedition. Conduct the final trip to observe the natural history, geology and cultures of Great Smoky Mountains National Park

For more information:

Call: 888 404 7743
Email: Bryan Wood at: bwood@audubon-center.org
Or write us at:
Audubon Center of the North Woods
P.O. Box 530, Sandstone, MN 55072

Click here to visit the ACNW Fall Block facebook page for photos and other information

Click here to see slide show from the Fall 2008 Field Investigations course