Environmental conservation education prepares students for careers in environmental protection or education related to the environment. Degrees in environmental science and education are available at various levels, usually as part of a college or university’s environmental science or education program. If graduates want to work as teachers, they may need to apply for additional certifications, depending on the age range they want to teach and where they want to work. Because advances in science can lead to shifting standards and practices in the industry, continuing education is an important part of environmental conservation education.
Some programs are specifically designed to train educators. Attendees are knowledgeable about environmental conservation issues and may have a particular interest in wetlands or sustainable forestry. They learn how to provide public outreach as part of an environmental conservation education program. This can include activities, curriculum development, and age-appropriate environmental education. Teachers’ legal obligations, such as curriculum standards set by government agencies, can also be discussed.
Environmental educators may be hired to teach science classes in schools. They can also organize field trips and events, as well as provide lectures and guest spots in a classroom. Others may work in public outreach at camps or environmental facilities. They should be able to teach using a variety of methods, including effective communication and information distribution. Environmental education can also teach people how to use nature as a classroom by incorporating direct interaction with the environment into the curriculum.
Environmental conservation education, in general, can provide training for people who want to work in the conservation field. People directly involved in habitat restoration and protection, as well as policymakers and consultants, are all included. A person who has received training in this field can work for government agencies or environmental organizations. Others may work for consulting firms or private businesses that prioritize conservation and responsibility in their operations.
Teachers and outreach professionals typically need a master’s degree in environmental conservation education. People who plan to work directly in conservation may benefit from postgraduate degrees, and in some cases, a doctorate is strongly recommended. People in this field can join professional organizations to keep up with trends and information through trade journals, conferences, and workshops. These can aid in the development of new curricula, the discussion of effective outreach techniques, and the development of responses to regulatory changes that may have an impact on conservation practices.