Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Humans are the greatest contributors to pollution in a watershed. Not only do these pollutants destroy habitat and put local flora and fauna at risk, but they can negatively affect resources that humans rely on, the most notable of which is access to clean drinking water. The unfortunate reality is that many people do not understand the severity of the issue at hand. The future of our planet relies on the next generation, which is why it is important to have foundational knowledge on a global topic like water. Here, I have assessed the effectiveness of a watershed lesson given to two introductory geology lab courses with a focus on watershed basics, hazards, and conservation by using the place-based education approach. Place-based learning is a highly interpretive concept that focuses on linking students with their local communities in the classroom. Using surveys, I show that using this method to teach about watersheds results in greater watershed literacy and understanding.
Date Awarded
Spring 2023
Department
Geology
Advisor 1
Linda Morse
Recommended Citation
Kenney, Jordan, "Assessing watershed understanding through place-based learning" (2023). Geology Senior Theses. William & Mary. Paper 51.
https://scholarworks.wm.edu/geologyseniors/51
