Duke University and the Nicholas School: Encouraging today's youth through environmental education

Abstract

Environmental education programs and curriculum have been a crucial part of earth and science education since the mid-1970s. With the increasing scope of environmental issues in the US and worldwide, it is important to prepare our youth to solve pressing environmental problems. This study documents K-12 environmental education initiatives in Durham county public schools sponsored by the Duke University community, including and earth science departments and the Nicholas School of the Environment. The scope, pedagogical approach, and process of development of these initiatives are noted. Moreover, this study offers recommendations for both Duke and the Nicholas School of the Environment based on current academic literature and similar outreach programs at other universities such as the inclusion of training and enhanced professional development for in-service teachers and increased emphasis on service-learning and nature based instructional approaches.