Spring 2000
Vol 8 Issue 2
IN THIS ISSUE...
Metaphors, Mathematics, and Myers-Briggs
The MIL: Developing a Public Conversation about Teaching Learning
Integrating Humanities Classes with Historical Storytelling
Re-framing and Renewing a Learning Project
Inquiry-Oriented Physics Instruction
Self-Directed Learning in the Chemistry Lab
Center for Native and Urban Wildlife at SCC
ASSIDERE
"Just Tell Me What I Have to Do to Get an 'A' in Your Class!"
MCLI Assessment and Evaluation Resources
SEE ALSO...
The Labyrinth
Maricopa Center for Learning and Instruction
Center for Native and Urban Wildlife at Scottsdale Community College
Virginia Korte, SCC
The Center for Native and Urban Wildlife (CNUW) at Scottsdale Community College (SCC) began operation in January 2000. Through a grant provided by the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust and in collaboration with the McDowell Sonoran Land Trust, and many other community organizations, the Biology Department established CNUW, an organization dedicated to preserving desert wildlife through community education and participation. By increasing awareness and appreciation of the Sonoran Desert and restoring damaged desert habitat, CNUW supports the conservation of Sonoran Desert ecosystems for the benefit of all desert species including humankind.
New facilities for CNUW include a Greenhouse/Vivarium, an Outdoor Propagation Center, and a Learning Center. These resources aid in the successful completion of CNUW's goals which include desert habitat restoration projects, research and rearing of endangered amphibians and fishes, elementary and high school student outreach programs, an Internet-based network devoted to desert and urban wildlife preservation, and a community outreach process designed to educate our society of the value of desert wildlife diversity.
CNUW emphasizes participatory education in its fabric. This organization is student-driven and provides part-time wages to student workers and opportunities for volunteers. Hands-on learning opportunities, intended to attract and retain students, provide them with practical experience. Additionally, important community resources are woven in our partnerships with other organizations such as Arizona Game and Fish Department, Desert Botanical Garden, Liberty Wildlife, Phoenix Zoo, and City of Scottsdale, for educational experiences and transitioning into the workplace.
The Center for Native and Urban Wildlife programs are based on the belief that simple explanations to students about the value of particular wildlife species or wildlife habitats are not sufficient. Encouraging direct participation in projects involving the preservation of endangered species, habitat restoration, or wildlife species surveys produces students with knowledgeable and practical experience about desert conservation issues.
Students and faculty of SCC, with the McDowell Sonoran Land Trust and the City of Scottsdale, propagate native plants to revegetate disturbed desert habitats. Once a working cattle ranch located in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve within the City of Scottsdale, Brown's Ranch is one of CNUW's current habitat restoration projects.
Successful restoration of desert ecosystems and reintroduction of endangered species are important outcomes of CNUW's programs. Perhaps the most important measurement will be in CNUW's steady progression of influence within the hearts and minds of our community members.
