eii - Environmental Issues Instruction

eii is:

a process 
 • experiential teaching/learning 
 • a model of thematic instruction                                                                    
 • teaching ecological concepts by integrating disciplines 
 • development of teacher/leaders
 • analysis of issues
 • responsible environment action

eii is:
Our Environmental Initiative 


A model of issue instruction which has proven to be successful includes thematic studies. Themes (e.g. Climate Change) are used to gain an in-depth understanding of issues and bring students to take positive environmental action. Several levels need to be reached before students are prepared to take action as responsible citizens. Understanding what constitutes an environmental issue is a first step. It is necessary to understand the beliefs and motivators of the people who play a part in creating an issue. Basic ecology must be learned and knowledge must be gained of the environmental problems which are the basis of the issue. Action skills must be acquired by students. And the courage to take action must be fostered. Data show that when these goals are accomplished, students do change their behavior and do take positive action!

A few student teachers now have a special opportunity to join their cooperating teacher in an in-service workshop. Depending on the particular time of year in which student teaching is taken, this may occur before or during the student teaching semester.

As a student teacher, you will be able to spend a weekend with your cooperating teacher, planning a unit you will participate in teaching. As long as this is still in the pilot stage, there will be no cost to you for motel, meals, materials, or three hours of graduate credit. You will be introduced to the world of teacher in-service and graduate studies.

An environmental theme is used to introduce interdisciplinary learning and teaming.
Want to find out more? Send your best mailing address to bollwinkel@uni.edu to receive a brochure, or visit the eii display in the rotunda of the CEEE building.

The integration of Student Teachers into the eii teacher in-service program

OBJECTIVES

1. Identify cooperating teachers who are receptive to new ideas.

2. Provide bridge from being a student to a creative instructor.

3. Initiate meaningful teaming.

4. Build a partnership with student teacher and cooperating teacher.

5. Enhance the understanding of integrated environmental instruction.

6. Share the process of creating meaningful classroom instruction.