Becky at the OPTS Conference – Thursday Report
Good Afternoon from the Our Places Tell Stories Conference in Las Vegas, NV! Today it is bright, sunny, and warm, the enormous desert sky reflecting beautifully off of the golden Trump tower in the distance. Being out at the preserve here has the feeling of being removed from the hustle and bustle of the strip, helping to get all the conference attendees into the right mindset to immerse in ways and means to improve environmental literacy and environmental education programs.
This mornings’ keynote speaker was Kevin Coyle, a leading proponent voice in the political landscape of environmental education, with many years experience. He spoke eloquently on the studies he has helped perform that gauge the average Americans’, and American students’, understanding of environmental issues and the crucial steps necessary to execute REAL environmental/conservation education instead of just attempting to inform the public through sound bytes. Another topic Coyle spoke on that proved memorable and influential to me and many other audience members, was the tendency of environmental educators to assume that their students have certain knowledge, leading facilitators to not explain adequately, or to explain perhaps in a condescending way, a concept or vocabulary term which then effectively turns their students off to the issue they are trying to educate them on. Therefore as environmental educators, and advocates, we must remember that in our communities those whom we are attempting to educate may not be as informed as we are and practicing patience as we share our passion will help us be successful in our pursuits.
Following Kevin Coyle’s speech I was happy to attend a session on Engaging Audiences in Stewardship where I learned about a successful collaboration between agencies here in Southern Nevada in the pursuit of restoring the Blackbrush population which has been decimated by invasive grasses and wildfires. Interestingly the partnership involves scientists (Josh Hoines), educators (Amanda Rowland), and volunteer coordinators (Dr. Elizabeth Barrie) to provide events where the public can help participate in seed collection, seed-ball making, and seed dispersion of the Blackbrush. Seed-balls are a method used to assist in germination, where a seed is surrounded by mud and clay then dispersed to germinate which can then only happen when the conditions are optimal as the rain/snow washes away the mud shell (and it also helps protect the seed from being eaten by critters!). The trio had lessons valuable to anyone who may need to collaborate and cooperate effectively with colleagues and partners! So far it has been another productive day, I am looking forward to a hike/walk through the grounds this afternoon, followed by another evening adventure… Until later – RLB out
Experiential Educator
Phone: (775) 355-1688
Email: jamie@sierranevadajourneys.org
Background: University of Phoenix- B.S in Elementary Education; work in progress- M. Ed in Teacher Leadership.
Something you should know about me:
I was first introduced to Sierra Nevada Journeys as an undergraduate student. I participated in several workshops during my time as a student. After graduation I was hired to work on our campus in Portola, CA. At the end of the summer I joined the staff in the Reno office as an Experiential Educator. I enjoy working with SNJ for the opportunity to work with a variety of student populations and the chance to teach curriculum focusing on scientific concepts. The work environment is always positive and encouraging. My role at SNJ is providing me with numerous opportunities and tools to accomplish my personal and
caeegoals.