What are the key elements of an effective environmental education program?

1 Vision and goals

An effective environmental education program should have a clear and coherent vision and goals that guide its design, implementation, and evaluation. The vision and goals should reflect the values, needs, and aspirations of the program stakeholders, including learners, educators, community members, and partners. The vision and goals should also align with the national and international frameworks and standards for environmental education, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Environmental Education Partnership.

2 Curriculum and pedagogy

An effective environmental education program should have a relevant and engaging curriculum and pedagogy that foster the development of environmental knowledge, skills, attitudes, and actions. The curriculum and pedagogy should be based on the principles of inquiry, experiential learning, critical thinking, problem-solving, and action-oriented learning. The curriculum and pedagogy should also be responsive to the local and global environmental issues and contexts, and incorporate the perspectives and voices of diverse and marginalized groups.

3 Assessment and feedback

An effective environmental education program should have a comprehensive and meaningful assessment and feedback system that measures and improves the learning outcomes and impacts of the program. The assessment and feedback system should use a variety of tools and methods, such as portfolios, rubrics, surveys, interviews, observations, and self-assessments. The assessment and feedback system should also involve multiple stakeholders, such as learners, educators, peers, parents, and partners, and provide timely and constructive feedback that supports the learning process and the program improvement.

4 Resources and support

An effective environmental education program should have adequate and appropriate resources and support that enable the delivery and sustainability of the program. The resources and support should include human, financial, material, and technological resources, as well as professional development, mentoring, and coaching opportunities for educators and program staff. The resources and support should also leverage the existing and potential environmental education networks and partnerships, such as local organizations, institutions, agencies, and experts, that can enhance the quality and reach of the program.

5 Participation and collaboration

An effective environmental education program should have a high level of participation and collaboration among the program stakeholders, especially the learners, educators, community members, and partners. The participation and collaboration should foster a sense of ownership, empowerment, and responsibility for the program and its outcomes. The participation and collaboration should also facilitate the exchange of ideas, experiences, resources, and best practices among the program stakeholders, and promote the development of a shared vision and goals for environmental education.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?