Env 496 Integrative Seminar in Environmental Studies
Spring 2003

Lecture Notes

For each class meeting Steve Simpson prepared lecture notes.  Depending on discussion and other factors, all the notes may not get into class.  They are, however, listed here.  Because they are notes, they might not always make complete sense.  Students should ask questions if they want clarification

January 29

What is e-literacy?

Tblisi

-        interdisciplinary approach 

-        link between theory and every day life

-        link between traditional and experiential education

-        knowledge ® values  ® behavior

-        1) awareness, 2) knowledge, 3) attitudes, 4) skills (tools), 5) participate

Wisconsin Ecosystem Management

-        ecological

-        socioeconomic

-        institutional(legal authority, DNR framework, cooperative agreement)

David Orr

-        an education not built around “success”

-        institutional examples of responsible practices (incl. student opportunities)

-        blend of intellectual pursuits and experiential learning

-        commitment to “truths” on justice, health, peace….

Steve Van Matre “Earth Education”
Why Environmental Education has Failed

Ä     EE is defined so broadly that everything becomes EE (and in effect, nothing is specifically EE)

Ä     EE is perceived a supplemental, either infused into other programming or perceived as extra when there is time and money

Ä     EE is a collection of short-term projects based on issues, but ignores lifelong lifestyle changes

Ä     EE often accepts funds from the very agencies that are prime offenders (power companies, chemical companies, forestry industry

Ä     EE gets lumped into other outdoor experiences (e.g. outdoor recreation)

Ä     EE has no clear vision (a lot of literature and conference papers, but no guidance as to the most important subjects)

Email me at simpson.stev@mail.uwlax.edu

Last modified 1/29/03.