Abstract Detail

Teaching Section

Navaro, Julia [1], Fuselier, Linda [2].

Botany, invasive species and forest restoration: learning through informal botanical education and intergenerational civic engagement.

Restoration of forest ecosystems following the loss of biodiversity in the wake of non-native species invasions is an issue of civic consequence that has the potential to engage audiences of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. We used principles of informal science education to design and implement intergenerational learning opportunities for senior citizens and college undergraduates around the theme of forest restoration. We partnered with the Yellow Springs Senior Center and brought elder community members to campus to work with college students. Through these workshops, participants propagated native species, practiced winter twig identification, cleaned seeds, learned about seed dormancy and received updates on honeysuckle eradication programs. Plants propagated during the workshops will be installed by community members in restoration areas in a local nature preserve. Assessment of workshops indicated that participants learned new concepts in botany and appreciated the intergenerational aspect of the environment. In addition to the community involvement, undergraduate students are designing research projects to examine success of restoration plantings. This project brought together informal science education, community building, research and civic engagement to enhance botanical knowledge among older adults and undergraduates.

Broader Impacts:

1 - Antioch College, Environmental Sciences, One Morgan Place, Yellow Springs, Ohio, 45387, United States
2 - Antioch College, Environmental Sciences, One Morgan Place, Yellow Springs

Keywords:
Botany Education
Citizen Science
Propagation.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Grand Salon A - D/Riverside Hilton
Date: Monday, July 29th, 2013
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PTE003
Abstract ID:367
Candidate for Awards:None