Embargo Period

5-11-2018

Degree Name

MA in Intercultural Service, Leadership, and Management

First Advisor

Ryland White

Abstract

In an increasingly technological world, the human connection with nature is falling behind. Acts of violence are more prevalent in media and mainstream news reports. Environmental concerns and issues are in the fore-front of today’s policy debates. Yet, professional development opportunities that are being provided to a quickly changing work force are becoming stagnate. If technology is constantly improving why would teaching methods remain stagnate? I was drawn to the connection of nature’s inherent adaptability and the human’s desire to maintain the status quo. I chose to explore this idea through a training CLC so that I may apply the theories of experiential learning and social change to a field that is indirectly aiding in maintaining the status quo. This study takes a deeper look into the collaborative efforts of a statewide organization in Texas, USA. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is the home organization for the Texas Children in Nature (TCiN) Network, which acts as a facilitator and coalition builder for individuals and organizations in the state of Texas that want to be a part of the Children in Nature movement. This study identifies strategies that work in building collaboration as well as ways in which the network can improve their capacity to collaborate. Professionals from a wide range of fields in the state of Texas were surveyed and observed throughout the process. The results of this study led me to identify and examine my own capabilities as a trainer and agent of social change. I was able to apply theories and frameworks to the work I was completing in the state of Texas.

Disciplines

Outdoor Education

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