Conservation Education: What is it?

Environmental Education ….a learning process that increases people's knowledge and awareness about the environment and associated challenges, develops the necessary skills and expertise to address the challenges, and fosters attitudes, motivations, and commitments to make informed decisions and take responsible. Conservation Education ….the study of man's intelligent use of his natural environment through the development, management, preservation, and renewal of natural resources for his material, cultural, and aesthetic needs to benefit present and future generations.

Components of Conservation Education Awareness and sensitivity to the environment and environmental challenges Knowledge and understanding of the environment and environmental challenges Attitudes of concern for the environment and motivation to improve or maintain environmental quality

Components of CE cont. Skills to identify and help resolve environmental challenges Participation in activities that lead to the resolution of environmental challenges

What makes a successful conservation education program? Relevant Meaningful Doesn’t stand alone Empowerment to act Respect and acknowledgement of values and culture Appropriate evaluation

Challenges to Conservation Education Misunderstood Education systems Evaluations Donor funding cycles Feel good factor Scale Conflicting agendas Human nature

Why You Should Include Conservation Education in Your Conservation Plan Humans are the reason for environmental degradation/destruction. It is difficult for people to conserve when they do not understand why they are being asked to do so or how they will benefit. Efforts of researchers/conservationists are not often well communicated to the general public.

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