Certification program offered to boost credentials of environmental educators and interpreters

Nevada educators and others have the opportunity to be certified as highly qualified

July 10, 2009

Educators, interpreters and others working at nature and heritage-rich attractions in Nevada now have the opportunity to receive the Nevada State Certification in Environmental Education and Interpretation. The Public Lands Institute at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas will begin its summer 2009 cohort in August.

The comprehensive certification program will consist of two major components: coursework and an internship. The courses include the conceptual foundations, issues and methods of environmental education; environmental literacy; planning, implementing and fostering learning; and diverse audiences. The courses will be conducted in a workshop format from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. beginning on August 12 and ending on August 19 at the Springs Preserve. A supervised internship with a trained mentor will follow the coursework. Participants then will be awarded a Nevada State Certificate in Environmental Education and Interpretation.

“This certification provides a variety of benefits to individuals and organizations,” said Allison Brody, Conservation Education and Interpretation program manager at the Public Lands Institute. “Educators, interpreters and others attain the knowledge, practical skills and experiences for work in public land areas, museums, zoos, aquaria and other nature and heritage-rich places. Organizations, including tour operators, gain highly qualified educators and interpreters to help connect with their audiences in meaningful and fun ways,” Brody explained.

The cost for the certification courses and internship is $150. Please visit enviroedexchange.org/certification to get more information. You may also contact Allyson Butler by email at allyson.butler@unlv.edu or phone at 702.895.5147.