THE ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATOR CERTIFICATION
The Environmental Educator Certification (EEC) program allows new educators and career professionals the opportunity to invigorate and align their program objectives and set personal and professional goals to improve Michigan’s environmental education. The EEC is internationally recognized by and aligns with the requirements of the North American Association of Environmental Education (NAAEE).
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The original EEC program is now referred to as the EEC-Professional (or EEC-P), whereas the new certification track is called the EEC-Associate (EEC-A). Earning the EEC-P demonstrates that you are a highly competent environmental educator who has the capacity for creating, implementing, and evaluating EE initiatives to evoke positive social-ecological change. The EEC-P is recognized by NAAEE and the only certification in the state eligible for their accreditation.
Earning the EEC-A demonstrates an understanding of EE and a commitment toward restoring and protecting your local environment. This program option is for those people who are passionate and knowledgeable about EE but have not completed or pursued the EEC-Professional program.
Date: October 4th, 2024
Time: 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Cost: $75
Location:
Grand Valley State University
DeVos Center
401 Fulton St, W
Grand Rapids MI 49504
EEC Strand I
Fall Workshop date
October 4, 2024
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
While environmental educators come with a variety of backgrounds and work in a variety of settings, there is a core set of characteristics that all qualified environmental educators should possess. The tasks and requirements of the certification process are designed to assess and ensure that all candidates demonstrate aptitude in the following areas:
A Certified Environmental Educator in Michigan…
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1. Has an awareness of significant events in EE history, current and historical environmental issues, and EE resources in the state of Michigan.
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2. Understands basic knowledge and environmental facts and processes.
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3. Teaches and communicates effectively with an audience.
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4. Exhibits the skills and ability to critically analyze current environmental issues.
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5. Distinguishes between education and advocacy.
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6. Demonstrates leadership and collaboration in the EE community.
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7. Continually strives to improve his or her skills and knowledge.
The characteristics of a certified environmental educator were formulated by the MAEOE EEC Committee and derived in part from the Core Competencies published by the NAAEE.
Please contact the MAEOE EEC coordinator for more information: eec@maeoe.com
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
The interest in the EEC continues to increase. This offering by MAEOE will benefit all types of educators – formal, non-formal, experienced, and the novice. Having the EEC ensures the participant attained a set standard of environmental education (EE) knowledge and skills identified by the NAAEE. The professional expertise gained with the EEC could help you advance in your career and gain the respect you deserve.
OVERVIEW
In summary, here are 5 things you can do to start working toward your EEC today.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR EEC GRADUATES!
Bridget Booth | 2019
Creating Environmentally Literate Citizens in Outdoor Learning Spaces