Place-Based Learning

PLACE-BASED LEARNING AND WATERSHEDS

Place-Based Learning is simply using our place, where we live, as the context for learning. Participants learn through a process of exploration, action, and reflection. Place-Based Learning engages students and other participants in critical thinking and meaningful projects that deepens the understanding of the place they live. It provides a framework that integrates the exploration of the socio-cultural aspects and the environmental qualities of the watershed and encourages action that benefits both people and the environment. Place-Based Learning programs provide opportunities for participants to engage in:

  • Integrated learning in the context and direct experience of place.
  • Community investigations and service learning projects.
  • Community education.
  • Reflection and assessment.

Why Watersheds? Watersheds are containers for place. We all live in a watershed, from the urban inner-city to the most remote mountain town. The watershed is simply a way to geographically define one’s place. Through exploration in our watershed we learn about the natural processes, such as fire, weather, or erosion, as well as human systems, such as urban development, agriculture, or recreation, within our place.

  

THE BENEFITS OF PLACE-BASED LEARNING

Many who get involved in Place-Based Learning have common goals, including: Enhancing education; Encouraging environmental stewardship; Building community vitality; and Inspiring hope.

For schools and youth education programs, Place-Based Learning provides meaningful learning through a standards-aligned program in which students learn through investigating, exploring and taking action in their local watershed and community. Place-Based Learning is an interdisciplinary, integrated approach that encourages cooperative learning and incorporates literacy, research, technology, character development, and service-learning. Research has found that students benefit from Place-Based Learning in the following ways:

  • Better performance on standardized measures of academic achievement in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.
  • Reduced discipline and classroom management problems.
  • Increased engagement and enthusiasm for learning.
  • Greater pride and ownership in accomplishments.
  • In addition to traditional subject-matter knowledge and basic life skills, Place-Based Learning students gain a wealth of added educational benefits, including a comprehensive understanding of the world; advanced thinking skills leading to discovery and real-world problem-solving; and, awareness and appreciation of the diversity of viewpoints within a democratic society.

For communities, Place-Based Learning provides an organized program in which young people can work on solving real-life issues, in the process revitalizing their community, developing a sense of hope, and helping youth be recognized as valued citizens that can make a significant contribution to the community. This practice contributes to reducing such issues as gang violence, teen pregnancy, and school drop-out rates. It also increases career awareness and improves school to work transitions.

For organizations with an environmental focus, Place-Based Learning provides an opportunity for youth to learn about natural resource/environmental issues through exploration and taking action in their local watershed. A Place-Based Learning program can provide a sustainable pool of active volunteers and greater levels of engagement by the community in vital issues and projects.