Junior High Environmental and Outdoor Education: Teacher

Abstract

This manual for Junior High Environmental and Outdoor Education courses specifically addresses the special needs of adolescent students. A program development model is organized around six elements: (1) outdoor core; (2) personal and group development; (3) environmental core; (4) outdoor expeditions; (5) environmental investigations; and (6) commitment to action. These elements, designed to be taught either as a single course or as a sequence program of up to 3 years, are integrated to develop three strands: outdoor, personal and group development, and environmental. These strands, in turn, are developed over three levels of experience: a foundation level, an exploration level, and an empowerment level. The manual is divided into eight chapters and an appendix that contains Alberta Education's policy on controversial issues and supplementary information sources. Chapter 1 introduces the course rationale, philosophy and the development process of general learner expectations, course organization, and planning considerations. Chapters 2 and 3 include content and development outlines and a compilation of pertinent resources. Chapter 4 provides guidelines for single- and multi-year program development. Chapters 5 and 6 provide model units for introductory, intermediate and advanced level units. The last two chapters concern safety considerations and evaluation techniques. The course is designed to shift from teacher-directed learning to teacher-facilitated activities and student-initiated action. Community involvement is encouraged and guidelines for utilizing resource people for group presentations is provided. (MCO)