Promoting Engagement: Using Species Action Plans to bring together Students and Conservation Professionals

Abstract

We describe an exercise, the production of a species action plan, which utilises components of both transmission mode and experiential learning. This exercise brings together students and a professional role model to promote a stronger engagement with aspects of local biodiversity management. We outline perceived benefits and outcomes of the exercise in the context of a professional ecologist, a student participant and a course tutor, all of whom agree that the completion of the task is a valuable learning opportunity.