My Earthwatch experience
has enriched my life personally and professionally. Through the discussions,
hands-on experience at the banding stations, and bird surveys I have enriched
my scientific base in the areas of ecology, environmental studies, and
biology. The experience provided material and ideas for my classroom,
introduced me to new people, places and experiences, encouraged me to use
my newly acquired Web design skills, as well as motivating me to enroll
in a Spanish course at a local community college.
The teacher report was
to include one original lesson plan; my Earthwatch experience has stimulated
an entire module. Most professional development opportunities are limited
to one topic and a room full of teachers, the trip to Ecuador provided
a setting that encouraged discussions across the board with participants
who brought an array of experiences, backgrounds and ages. Dusty was always
willing to expand on any topic in the area of biology or community interactions,
Tati, Fabian and Pascual enriched my understanding of the Ecuadorian culture,
Jeanne was able to make sense of my financial status, and the list goes
on.
My enriched scientific
base will be the primary benefit to my students; the secondary benefit
will be the new found enthusiasm and energy. Professional development
experiences and travel almost always provide ideas for a lesson or spark
an idea; the Ecuador experience provided a chance to work side by side
with experts in the field of ecology, environmental studies and biology,
a dimension unattainable in a workshop or classroom. As an elementary
teacher, I am fairly isolated on a day to day basis, by participating on
the Earthwatch expedition my energy level and enthusiasm for teaching is
once again renewed, for it allowed for new experiences, new people and
enlightenment with a group of people interested in similar endeavors, yet
full of diversity. A strong academic base and enthusiasm allows for strong
and effective teaching.
The local applications
can and will be numerous. They will include introducing my students to
a new culture, implementing a more rigorous recycling program, and involving
the students and community in a "Murray Cares" program, by adopting an
acre of land at Bellavista. As the year progresses, I am certain
ideas will as well.