Immerse yourself in hands-on, field based, inquiry learning at the 20,000 acre Edge of Appalachia Preserve System!
Sponsored by the Cincinnati Museum Center, the Educators at the Edge program will provide participants with experiential learning opportunities. Explore topics focused on natural history and gain new skills to be used in the classroom. These exciting classes are open to classroom teachers, naturalists, and other non-traditional educators. Graduate credit through Ashland University is available as well as up to 45 contact hours.
The Richard and Lucile Durrell Edge of Appalachia Preserve System is an 20,000 acre nature preserve located in beautiful Adams County, Ohio. The preserve is owned and managed by Cincinnati Museum Center and The Nature Conservancy in Ohio. Both of these private non-profit organizations have been working in partnership to conserve the rare and unusual flora and fauna of Adams County since 1959.
Series 4: Summer 2018 through Spring 2019
Prairies: The ABCs of XLPs
July 13, 2018
Register by July 6, 2018
Nestled in a finger of the Interior Low Plateau is one of the most unique habitats found in Ohio. Xeric Limestone Prairies (XLPs), are dry grassland habitats on shallow, alkaline soils. Home to tall grasses, interesting wildflowers and a variety of animals, these prairies are incredible places to explore, observe, and investigate the natural world. Participants will study both biotic and abiotic aspects of XLPs by engaging in field-based inquiry techniques and participate in a simulated field study of a prairie which can be used right inside the classroom.
Insect Investigations
August 3, 2018
Register by July 27, 2018
Insects make up the largest group of animals on Earth. For many people an insect is something to step on, swat at, or spray with insecticides. However, insects are truly remarkable animals worthy of a closer look and in-depth study. Insects occupy every niche on the planet and are found on every continent. This workshop will focus on identification, collecting/preserving, life cycles, symbiotic relationships, and invasive species. Ample field time, access to preserved specimens, and lots of hands-on activities will make this workshop “fly” by!
Cross Curriculum Classroom Pets
November 8, 2018
Guest Instructor: Marcey Shafer, Educational Services Coordinator, Fairfield County Park District
Register by November 1, 2018
Live education animals and classroom pets bring educators an abundance of opportunities to integrate that animal into school curriculums. While traditional animals such as reptiles and mammals are fine choices, discover a wider world of interesting animals such as arthropods, segmented worms, and mollusks. Animals in these groups make for amazing study subjects and fascinating organisms to observe. In this workshop participants will investigate the merits of different organisms as education animals including but not limited to stick insects, hissing cockroaches, caterpillars, and millipedes. Live examples of several kinds of animals and field time for study of appropriate collection methods will be part of the day. Care and maintenance, lesson plans, laws, and ethics will all be incorporated into this exciting workshop!
World of Seven Billion
November 15, 2018
Guest Instructor: Cathy Knoop, National Trainer for Population Education
Register by November 8, 2018
During this class, discover how to help students understand the ways that population, resources, and the environment are interrelated. Amazing, hands-on materials from Population Connection, will equip you with age appropriate activities related to your subject area. This nationally recognized curriculum is aligned to National Standards and can be used cross-curriculum. Each participant will receive a CD of 60 activities, as well as other materials that can be used with their students.
Geology of Ohio
March 7, 2019
Guest Instructor: Steve McKee, Retired Director, Gorman Nature Center
Register by February 28, 2019
Journey hundreds of millions of years into the past and discover the many stories Ohio’s geology has to tell. From alien looking creatures in ancient seas, continents crashing into each other, and icy glaciers advancing and retreating, there are many facets to what’s underneath our feet. Some concepts such as deep time and the rock cycle can be difficult for students to grasp, while others like weathering, erosion and deposition are confusing. Sorting out the different kinds of rocks and describing their characteristics can also be challenging. Enhance your students’ learning by experiencing the geological wonders of Ohio through hands-on activities with fossils, maps, and more!
Mammals of Ohio
March 14, 2019
Register by March 7, 2019
Less than 3% of the world’s animals are vertebrates and of those, mammals are one of the smallest groups. Despite these statistics, mammals fascinate and engage people (being of the same class) of all ages. With 53 different species of mammals in Ohio, there are ample opportunities for discovery inside and outside the classroom. With plenty of inquiry-based activities for elementary and high school students, this workshop will study Ohio’s mammals in a variety of ways. Participants will explore identification techniques, investigate the use of trail cameras, and learn about the environmental and historical significance of North America’s largest rodent, the beaver.