Implementation of Collaborative Learning as a High-Impact Practice in a Natural Resources Management Section of Freshman Seminar

Abstract

Forestry and environmental science students enrolled in a one credit hour freshman seminar course participated in a land management evaluation and water quality sampling excursion using canoes and water sampling equipment. The purpose of this assessment was to engage students with hands-on, field based education in order to foster connections to their chosen profession and natural resources. This culminated in a poster symposium of the experience. Broad competency areas for high impact practices in natural resource management were emphasized for learning. Students were engaged in the exercise and some commented that the project helped them develop a sense of place and forming connections within their peer group. Based on numerous other studies and this qualitative assessment, the use of water quality sampling and collection of real-world data can enhance student’s perception of the teaching a learning effectiveness in natural resources management course.