ERIC Number: EJ866759
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2009
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1533-015X
EISSN: N/A
Motivations of Adults for Non-Formal Conservation Education and Volunteerism: Implications for Programming
Van Den Berg, Heather A.; Dann, Shari L.; Dirkx, John M.
Applied Environmental Education and Communication, v8 n1 p6-17 2009
Adult conservation education is growing nationally. We investigated adults' motivations to take part in Michigan's Conservation Stewards education and volunteerism program. We used three theoretical frames (adult education orientations, volunteerism motivations, and leisure benefits sought) to understand learners' involvement. Adults' education motivations were for learning (seeking knowledge) and for participating in the learning activity and its social interactions. Motivations for volunteering were strongest for understanding ecosystems, expressing one's values, and interacting socially. Learners sought leisure benefits of enjoying the outdoors, helping the environment, reflecting, and participating in well-organized projects. Educators should clearly understand learners' motivations in order to improve programs. (Contains 3 tables.)
Descriptors: Conservation Education, Conservation (Environment), Volunteers, Environmental Education, Adult Education, Student Motivation, Theories, Leisure Time, Participation, Learning Activities, Interaction, Social Values, Nonformal Education, Recreational Activities, Factor Analysis, Goal Orientation, Natural Resources, Social Influences
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 325 Chestnut Street Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Fax: 215-625-2940; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Adult Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Michigan
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A