In this first lesson we will use supporting literature, case studies, and questions to explore what makes MWEEs a powerful educational framework.
While MWEEs can affect a broad array of outcomes—everything from student health to career awareness—there are five outcomes that stand out as important and timely for the education and environmental fields:
- MWEEs positively affect Student Achievement because they are anchored to curriculum standards and support formal goals for learning, which are important drivers for teachers and administrators.
- MWEEs engage students in real-world experiences that support the development of skills related to life and career; learning and innovation; and information, media, and technology while learning key subjects. Thus, students exercise 21st Century Skills by having the opportunity to think critically, solve problems, employ analytical and higher-order thinking skills, and communicate effectively.
- Environmental Stewardship and Civic Responsibility is an essential component of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement with goals for citizen stewardship, public access, and environmental literacy coming together toward a vision for engaged communities. By getting students actively involved in their learning around local environmental issues, they can better understand environmental issues and see themselves in future solutions.
- Conducting hands-on field investigations and meaningful action related to real issues in their communities fully Engages Students as active learners in a context that is relevant to both their learning and their lives.
- MWEEs promote Equity when implemented at the school district level; providing opportunity to all students to participate regardless of where they live or who their teacher is. MWEEs can also foster discussions around Environmental Justice issues.
