Enabling environmental education in an environmental education centre : a narrative account of opportunities and constraints
Date
2007-03
Authors
Melville, Hestelle Ronette
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
This mini-thesis documents a Narrative Inquiry as a phenomenon with special focus on reflective accounts of my experiences, opportunities and constraints in the process of self development as an environmental education practitioner in an environmental education centre situated in a nature reserve.
I provide some background information on the environmental education centre, the reserve and the broader structure in which it functions. Through the process of reflection I try to clarify some of the issues that I grappled with in my practice as an environmental educator in nature conservation. A critical discussion of the projects, activities and programmes offered through the centre provide clarity and insight into the work I am doing as well as my role as environmental education officer in the broader context of my job and the organisation for which I work.
Reflection of my personal experiences over a period of time is weaved throughout this study in order to contribute to/or provide a sense of clarity and understanding of my believes as an environmental educator responsible for an environmental education centre situated in a nature reserve. Through this study the importance of training for education officers, engaging with research and the need for clearly defined aims and objectives for the centres funded by nature conservation became apparent. The study demonstrates that the implementation of environmental education is possible and can be achieved, but with the necessary capacity.
Description
Thesis (MEd (Curriculum Studies))--University of Stellenbosch,2007.
Keywords
Dissertations -- Curriculum studies, Theses -- Curriculum studies, Environmental education, Reflection (Philosophy), Nature -- Study and teaching (Higher), Teachers -- Training of