PARENT SESSION
Poster Session # 3: Ecological Education.
Monday, August 4 Presentation from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM. SITCC Exhibit Hall B.
The Earth Systems Connections elementary curriculum: Contextual learning opportunities for building ecological knowledge.
Vierling, Lee*,1, Frykholm, Jeff2, Glasson, George 3, 1 South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Rapid City, SD, Lee.Vierling@sdsmt.edu2 University of Colorado, Boulder, CO3 Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
ABSTRACT- As humans continue to subject the Earth′s dynamic and interdependent systems to greater levels of stress and demand, it is paramount that educators help young children appreciate the significance and interrelated nature of ecological systems. The Earth Systems Connections (ESC) curriculum project aims to provide integrated learning opportunities for primary children across a diverse range of cultural backgrounds that will help them: 1) identify and recognize the interconnected nature of the Earth′s systems; 2) appreciate technological tools (e.g. remote sensing imagery and analysis techniques) that scientists use to conduct earth system science; 3) recognize the extent to which mathematics, science, and technology are not only interrelated, but also can help us understand natural phenomena; and 4) cultivate a spirit of curiosity and confidence in themselves as emerging thinkers and scientists who will be responsible for understanding and caring for the Earth in the decades to come. The ESC curriculum is being designed around seven themes, each representing a different perspective of earth system science that encompasses several disciplines yet is appropriate in scope for elementary aged children. The content of each lesson is presented in contexts that require students to gather and assimilate ecological information not only through science and mathematics, but social studies, art, and the language arts as well. The initial phase of the ESC curriculum will provide teachers with a core of 50 thematic, integrated, yet stand-alone lessons (containing over 100 activities) that are connected across K-5 grade levels. While lessons are designed with pedagogical and content innovation in mind, each reflects specific national content and process standards for elementary level mathematics and science education.
Key words: earth system science education, interdisciplinary curriculum, ecology education, K-5 curriculum