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NewsJanuary 18, 2006 Sea Grant Brings Together College and Grade School
Students to Foster Community Stewardship The new semester at the University of Illinois kicks off a new course, planned in part by Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG). This unique service-learning course titled Community Stewardship through Environmental Education, offers university students the opportunity to teach 4-7th grade school children about the impact of aquatic invasive species using the science-based web site Nab the Aquatic Invader! (www.sgnis.org/kids). They then will collaborate with the students on community stewardship projects focused on the protection of aquatic ecosystems. “With increasing public concern about the environment, there is heightened interest in developing new ways for students to engage in learning, research and community engagement initiatives that foster responsible environmental decision-making and action,” said Robin Goettel, IISG associate director for education. “Service-learning is a form of experiential education in which learning occurs through a cycle of action and reflection,” said Goettel. “Students will work with others to apply what they are learning to local problems created by the invasion of unwelcome aquatic species and, at the same time, reflect upon their experiences as they seek to meet community needs. We are excited to draw upon the expertise of the Center for Teaching Excellence, which supports the University’s public engagement initiative, especially with regard to helping undergraduates develop an ethic of social responsibility and leadership through service learning projects.” Students will present their community stewardship projects in the “Nab the Aquatic Invaders Community Stewardship Fair “at the annual U of I Environmental Horizons Showcase in April. In addition to teaching youth in the schools and working with community businesses and organizations, students will meet for class, which will include guest lectures, reflective discussions and supervised work in section groups. This new course represents a collaborative effort between the U of I’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, the Center for Teaching Excellence, four local schools and community partners. Irene Miles |
