I'm working on compiling definitions of all key terms that I will be using in my research:
environmental education
environmental literacy
experiential education
experiential environmental education
I will probably be changing these definitions ever so slightly as I analyze my data, but here is what I'm using so far along with their references.
Environmental Education
A method for increasing environmental literacy through learner-centered, hands-on experiences that challenge students’ analytical and problem solving skills concerning natural systems and humans’ role in those systems. It incorporates multiple disciplines (math, science, history, economics, political science, English, sociology, etc) along with feelings, attitudes, and perceptions in order to develop responsible citizens and environmental stewards (derived from the North American Association for Environmental Education 2004).
Environmental Literacy
The capacity of an individual to incorporate a broad understanding of how people and societies relate to each other and to natural systems in their daily lives. This requires sufficient awareness, knowledge, skills and attitude, along with the ability to incorporate appropriate environmental considerations into peoples’ lifestyle, career, and community (derived from Elder 2003).
Experiential Education
A philosophy and methodology in which educators purposefully engage with learners in direct experience and focused reflection in order to increase knowledge, develop skills and clarify values (Association of Experiential Education).
Experiential Environmental Education
Environmental education that is purposefully conducted in an outdoor environment (whether natural or man-made) in which students actively participate in a process of exploration and discover of environmental topics, processes, and issues. (This is a working definition that I derived from a qualitative study that I am currently working on. It may change as I analyze further data, but the major constructs are active participation, exploration and discovery, and outdoor environment.)
References:
Association for Experiential Education (AEE). Retrieved March 20, 2010 from: http://www.aee.org/.
Elder, James L. (2003). A field guide to environmental literacy: making strategic investments in environmental education. Environmental Education Coalition and North American Association of Environmental Education: Rock Spring, GA.
North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE). (2004). Environmental Education Materials: Guidelines for Excellence. Retrieved March 20, 2010 from: http://naaee.org/npeee/materials_guidelines/guidelines.pdf
