Module Identifier RS22710  
Module Title INTERPRETATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION  
Academic Year 2000/2001  
Co-ordinator Mr Ian Keirle  
Semester Semester 2  
Assessment Exam   2 Hours   50%  
  Assignment     50%  

Learning outcomes
On completion of this module students will be able to

1. Demonstrate an understanding of interpretation and interpretive methods.

2. Plan interpretation provision.

3. Demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of the role of environmental education within the educational system of
England and Wales.

4. Evaluate different educational approaches and techniques for working with young people in the countryside in a variety of
situations.

Syllabus / Curriculum design
The curriculum is designed to provide students with the skills required to carry out interpretive and environmental education programmes. Initially concentrating on the methods by which people learn and assimilate information, the module then becomes more specific by studying areas such as interpretive text, design and media, together with the National Curriculum, group management and health and safety. Throughout the module, examples of good and poor practice are used as bases for discussions

Aims of the module
Sensitive use of the countryside depends upon increasing public understanding, and awareness of issues, through interpretation and education. Good practice in the development of high-class interpretation is considered and a range of interpretive techniques including first and third person interpretation and written and interactive media will be appraised. Interpretive planning will provide the basis for a holistic approach to this subject. The role of environmental education within the education system and its provision by countryside organisations will be examined, as will the history and structure of the National Curriculum. The variety of approaches to education at different levels will be evaluated, including the concept of 'Earth Education'.

Reading Lists
Books
Cornell J B. (1990) Sharing nature with children. Exley
Hale M (ed). (1993) Ecology in education. CUP
Ham S. (1992) Envirnmental interpretation. North American Press
Palmer J and Neal P. (1995) The handbook of environmental education. Routledge
Tilden F. (1977) Interpreting our heritage. 3rd. University of North Carolina Press
Van Matre S. (1990) Earth education - a new beginning. Institute for Environment Education
Veverka J.. (1994) Interpretive master planning. Falcon Press