Education programs adapt to COVID-19
*Story originally ran in Cataraqui Conservation’s Fall 2020 Cat Tales Newsletter.
The importance of outdoor learning is perhaps even more important considering the emotional and physical health benefits that spending time in nature can engender, especially during trying times such as the current Covid-19 pandemic. With the relaxation of some of the restrictions wisely put in place by provincial and regional health officials to help mitigate the spread of the virus, Cataraqui Conservation, in consultation with local health units, has decided we can safely start to bring back some of our education programs.
Cataraqui Conservation offers a wide range of quality curriculum-enriched outdoor and environmental education programs for all ages at Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area in Kingston. All of our programs foster a strong connection to nature by guiding students with their head, heart and hands. Our Conservation Educators have more than 40 years combined experience teaching preschool to adult-age learners and en- joy passing on their love and extensive knowledge of nature and the outdoors.
The protocols and precautions put in place by local public health officials and the provincial government have meant Cataraqui Conservation’s Education team have become even more innovative and adaptable in the new reality. Students are not allowed to leave school properties to attend programs at Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation area, nor are our staff allowed on school proper- ties, therefore creativity and flexibility have become part of our program delivery mandate.
As the fall semester progresses, Cataraqui Conservation education staff are working diligently to come up with ways they can continue to partner with educators and schools within the Cataraqui region to provide the needed conservation and outdoor education programs, within appropriate public health procedures.
Options being explored include various forms of online presentations, including virtual tours, online Q&A sessions, interactive online teaching sessions and more. Education staff are also crafting special learning modules and materials related to conservation and environmental education that teachers can use in their classrooms. Similar programs and online learning processes are being developed for home learners and early learners and for any other students being educated outside the traditional school environment.
Our education staff see themselves as partners in education, who want to continue to build a sense of community during these difficult times, as well as ensuring that everyone continues to learn about the importance and benefits of being outdoors, including how good it is for their own physical an emotional well being.
Your donation to the Cataraqui Conservation Foundation’s mission can help support Cataraqui Conservation’s educational programs. Make a contribution today.