Course Information
Throughout
its curriculum, Merry Lea’s graduate program in environmental education
integrates ecological learning and pedagogical skills. You will study the
ecology of the southern Great Lakes region and then refine your skills
to transfer that knowledge to students of all ages. Education is by nature,
interdisciplinary, integrating many fields. Environmental education adds
the natural sciences by incorporating ecology, biology, chemistry, and
physical/outdoor education into curricula. The program at Merry Lea will
challenge you every day and we trust that the reward is a renewed sense
of wonder and confidence in your ability to bring people across the globe
closer to the natural world.
The degree is built around four major components: six core courses, an
immersion in ecosystem studies, an extensive practicum, and a multi-faceted
final project. The core courses provide content and the fundamental skills
to understand, preserve and manage natural resources. You will also develop
your interpersonal skills enabling you to be an effective leader and create
challenging, safe and fun learning environments.
Six Core Courses
EnEd
510 - Natural History of the Southern Great Lakes Region (3
credits)
A study of the plants and animals of this region - and the ecosystems in
which they are found. Emphasis is on the 1) the interrelationships which
exist in ecosystems 2) the function of ecosystems, both how they operate
and how they impact surrounding systems and humans, 3) identity of the
organisms that comprise the ecological community. Students are expected
to investigate the ecological relationships of the organisms identified
as well as behaviors and life cycles. ((Professor - Lisa Zinn, Environmental
Education)).
EnEd 515 - Research Methods and Measurements (3 credits)
A laboratory class designed to give students an overview of designing,
implementing, and reporting a scientific study including the use of environmental
monitoring equipment to collect data and the basic statistics needed
to analyze them. The class will address both ecological research as well
as methods that could be used to analyze the success of educational strategies.
Students will investigate the different ecosystems around the area using
standard ecological data collection methods. Students will learn standard
methods for evaluating learning in environmental educational programs.
EnEd 520 - Principles of Environmental Education (3 credits)
A study of distinctive concepts and skills needed for delivering quality
environmental education programs. The following themes-within the context
of natural history-will be part of the course: field-based and experiential
education, inquiry, questioning, interpretation, settings, responsive
instruction, program design, assessment and evaluation, and learner outcomes. (Team of Instructors – Paul
Steury, Environmental Education: David Ostergren, Director MAEE)
EnEd
525 - Environmental Issues & the History of Environmental
Education (3 credits)
A study of current environmental issues facing society. Topics include
ethics, citizenry, environmental justice, theological implications, and
organizations addressing issues. The various facets of the history of environmental
education and outdoor education will be reviewed. A study of important
literature relevant to all topics will be included. (Team of Instructors – Paul
Steury, Environmental Education: David Ostergren, Director MAEE)
EnEd
530 - Leadership for Environmental Education Programs and Centers (3
credits)
This is a survey course on the essential skills and practices in leadership
and administration of non-profit organizations. Topics include personnel
management, strategic planning, personality styles, financial and resource
management, budget preparation, board utilization, fundraising and capital
campaign, day-to-day functioning of a nature center, and team development. (Professor – Luke
Gascho, Executive Director of Merry Lea ELC)
EnEd
535 - Land Management for Environmental Education (3 credits)
This is a study of both the theory and practice of managing the "place" for
various ecological functions and human values that enhance an environmental
education experience. Includes how land management practices need to reflect
the economic/social/spiritual values of humans, and the biological functions
of the ecosystems it encompasses. (William Minter,
Professor)
ENED 550 Environmental Topics in Faith, Peace and Justice (1 Credit)
Environmental quality and care for creation are emerging as important components
to faith, peace and justice across the globe. Creation care provides that
we should build on spiritual and theological foundations to care for God’s
creation. Environmental justice is the equitable distribution of costs
and benefits from utilizing resources to all people regardless of class,
generation, ethnic origin or gender. This seminar is a survey course of
these topics. (Professor - David Ostergren, Director MAEE)
EnEd
580 - Teaching Practicum in Environmental Education (6 credits)
Being part of the delivery of Merry Lea's K-12 onsite and outreach programs
in environmental education will fulfill the practicum in three major programming
time blocks giving students experience in multiple programs. Student will
also have opportunities in specialty programs, such as summer camps and
public programs. Assessment of student performance will occur after each
of the three programming time blocks and as part of the final evaluation.
ENED 570 Professional Portfolio (4 credits)
Portfolio expectations will be assigned to students during each of the first
three semesters. These will include ecological observations, photography, and
nature writing. Students will participate in six topical seminars, which will
be offered throughout the year, and write a response paper to each seminar.
(Nature Photography, Writing in Nature, Exploration of Faith and Spirituality,
Sustainability, Wilderness First Responder, and Public Presentation Skills)
ENED 560 Creative Project and Paper (4 credits)
The project paper will be based on one of the following themes: a) environmental
issue investigation b) ecological data based investigation, or c) pedagogical
data based investigation. Project statement, literature review, critical investigation,
application, conclusion, and professional formatting will all be expectations.
Students will develop age-appropriate instructional materials based on the
project themes.