By DOUG GRAVES
Ohio Correspondent

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Teachers in Ohio looking to educate their students about important environmental issues should know that help is just a mouse-click away.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) recently updated a searchable online database to help teachers introduce students to these issues.

“The ODNR database will make it easier for educators to bring conservation issues into the classroom by providing valuable, interdisciplinary learning opportunities that are suitable for their students,” said ODNR Assistant Director Rich Milleson. “These comprehensive environmental programs are great for all grade levels, from K through 12. The teachers can select programs for students at their specific grade level.”

These programs, which are sponsored by the ODNR Division of Forestry, Soil and Water Conservation, Water and Wildlife, are aligned with Ohio Academic Content Standards for social studies and science. Ohio educators can select interactive state-approved lessons from four programs: Project Learning Tree, Project WET, Project WILD and Windows on the Wild.

Programs can be selected based on specific areas of study (science or social studies) and/or grade levels. For instance, educators selecting topics under Project WET can choose from many topics, such as “Salt Marsh Players,” “Aqua Notes” or “People of the Bog.”

“The purpose of Project WET is to reach children, parents, educators and communities of the world with water education,” Milleson said. “With this course the children learn by doing and help engage students with hands-on, interdisciplinary lessons that teach important concepts about water.”

According to ODNR authorities, Project WILD is one of the most widely used conservation and environmental education programs among educators for students from kindergarten through high school. Such topics found in this are of study might include “Birds of Prey,” “Energy Pipeline” or “Grasshopper Gravity.”

“Project Learning Tree uses the forest as a window on the world, to increase students’ understanding of our environment and to help stimulate their critical and creative thinking,” Milleson said.

Windows on the Wild has the goal of teaching students of all ages about biodiversity issues, exploring the incredible web of life and how all living things are interconnected. Samples of topics include “Insect Madness,” “The Gene Scheme” and “Backyard Bioblitz.”
With all four online database studies, educators hope to develop their students’ awareness, appreciation, skills and commitment to address environmental issues and to encourage creativity and originality.

“Interaction through nature, be it through structured curricula or free play, enhances young people’s cognitive flexibility, sharpens critical thinking, hones problem-solving skills and develops the imagination,” said ODNR Director Sean Logan.

“We want to inspire and empower students to become responsible, productive and participatory members of society.”

Teachers looking for more information about these state-approved lesson programs or the searchable database can visit www.dnr.state.oh.us/education/correlations