Duluth Area Teachers’ Perceptions of Nonformal Environmental Education Programs

Abstract

This study examined Duluth area (Minnesota, USA) elementary school teachers’ perceptions regarding the school-based environmental education (EE) programs provided by the non-profit organization Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory (HRBO). A total of 76 Duluth area teachers participated in the study by completing a questionnaire. The influence of motivations and barriers on teachers’ decisions to select or not select HRBO were described. Additionally, teachers’ needs and desired changes regarding HRBO offerings were identified. Teachers’ perceptions and use of other local, nonformal EE providers were also addressed in this study. Factors guiding decisions regarding EE programming in general were described. Results were used to make recommendations that can guide future programming efforts at HRBO including increasing advertising, displaying program connection to academic standards, and providing more opportunities for in-classroom programming. Results also offer insight that may be useful to other nonformal EE providers such as the barriers teachers are experiencing across organizations and the overall value placed on EE by teachers in the community.