Unlimited Classrooms: A Resource Guide for Inclusive Environmental Education.

Overview & Synopsis

The purpose of this guide (intended for use by special education teachers, regular education teachers, environmental educators, park naturalists, therapeutic recreation specialists, and anyone else interested in learning how to make environmental education accessible to all students regardless of their ability level) is to show educators how they can use already existing environmental education materials with students who have physical, developmental, and behavioral disabilities. Section 1 provides an overview and offers a philosophy of environmental education for all students that includes those with disabilities. Information on inclusion and appropriate communication is also reviewed. Section 2 focuses on adapting environmental education activities for inclusive groups and the factors to consider when modifying activities. Section 3 contains activities and their adaptations developed by teachers. Section 4 discusses getting involved in community service projects while section 5 discusses lessons learned by using this resource guide. The appendix contains an annotated bibliography divided into the following categories: (1) Environmental Education-General Activity Guides and Curricula; (2) Environmental Education-Community and Action Projects; (3) Environmental Education for Students with Disabilities; (4) Outdoor Education/Camping/Adventure Programs for People with Disabilities; (5) Science for Students with Disabilities; (6) Inclusion-Environmental/Outdoor Education; (7) Inclusion-General Resources; (8) Disability Resources; and (9) Resource List for Recreation, Integration and Advocacy. (JRH)