The environmental education modules are designed to follow a progressive learning approach.
There are four thematic focus areas which can be incorporated to different degrees in each module. The four themes are:
1. Values: Focuses on developing multiple values for nature
- Intrinsic – values for nature for its own sake
- Instrumental – values for nature as a means to an end, specifically use-values. For example, use of pastures for forage
- Relational – values for nature based on the relationship humans have with nature and each other. For example, biophilia, love, care, and responsibility for nature, empathy, collaboration (together we can act), equity, fairness, justice, identity, sense of place, and connectedness to nature
2. Knowledge: Focuses on knowledge about nature
- Natural history
- Local environment (wildlife, livestock)
- Ecological processes and functions including carnivores
- Human interactions with nature
- Local indeginous, and cultural knowledge
3. Skills: Focuses on developing skills, such as critical thinking and analytical skills needed to solve conservation issues
- Observational
- Analytical
- Investigative
- Confidence-building
- Sharing & communication skills (communication with peers, sharing knowledge, bringing attention to the cause).
- Leadership
- Critical thinking
4. Action: Focuses on developing skills, space and opportunity for conservation action
- Decision-making
- Positive local action
- Compliance with environmental regulations