Project Learning Tree

Project Learning Tree
Name	Project Learning Tree
Formed	1976
Headquarters	United States
Type	Nonprofit
Focus	Environmental education

Project Learning Tree is an environmental education initiative founded in the United States in 1976 that develops curricular materials and professional development for educators and natural resource professionals. The program emphasizes hands-on, interdisciplinary learning about forests, natural resources, and sustainability, engaging teachers, youth leaders, and community organizations in field- and classroom-based activities. Over decades it has intersected with federal agencies, state forestry services, private foundations, and international education networks to expand its reach across North America and beyond.

History

Project Learning Tree originated amid the environmental movement of the 1970s, contemporaneous with events and institutions such as the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency, and landmark legislation like the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Early collaborators included the American Forest Foundation, state forestry agencies such as the United States Forest Service partners, and conservation organizations like Sierra Club chapters and the National Wildlife Federation. The program’s development paralleled curriculum reforms advocated by educators influenced by the National Science Teachers Association and curriculum guides from the U.S. Department of Education. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s Project Learning Tree expanded through partnerships with the Ford Foundation, state departments such as the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and university extension programs associated with land-grant institutions like Iowa State University and University of California, Berkeley.

Program and Curriculum

The program provides curricular units, activity guides, and professional development aligned with standards promoted by organizations such as the National Governors Association and the Common Core State Standards Initiative (where applicable), while drawing on subject matter linked to agencies like the U.S. Forest Service and research from institutions such as the Smithsonian Institution and Cornell University. Materials cover topics including forest ecology, biodiversity, life cycle studies, and resource management, integrating pedagogical approaches from proponents like John Dewey and interactive techniques associated with the National Science Teachers Association. Educator workshops have been hosted at institutions including the Audubon Society, botanical collections like the New York Botanical Garden, and land-based centers operated by organizations such as the Nature Conservancy.

Educational Impact and Evaluation

Evaluations of the program’s effectiveness have been conducted using methodologies recommended by evaluation bodies including the American Educational Research Association and foundations such as the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Studies have measured outcomes similar to assessments used by the National Assessment of Educational Progress and have compared participant gains to benchmarks endorsed by the National Science Foundation. Reported impacts include increased student knowledge about ecosystems, improved inquiry skills modeled after practices highlighted by the National Research Council, and professional growth among educators akin to outcomes documented in research from Harvard Graduate School of Education and Stanford Graduate School of Education studies. Longitudinal and quasi-experimental evaluations have involved collaborations with universities such as University of Minnesota and Michigan State University.

Partnerships and Funding

Funding and partnerships for the initiative have come from a mix of private foundations, corporate philanthropy, and public agencies. Notable funders historically include philanthropic organizations like the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and corporate supporters similar to timber companies represented in trade associations such as the American Forest & Paper Association. Public support has included collaborations with federal agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, state agencies like the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, and municipal natural resource departments in cities including Seattle and Boston. Partner organizations have ranged from environmental NGOs like The Nature Conservancy and World Wildlife Fund to academic partners such as Yale School of the Environment and extension networks affiliated with Land-grant university systems.

International and Outreach Programs

The program’s model has been adapted internationally through collaborations with entities including the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, provincial forestry ministries in countries such as Canada and Australia’s state departments, and NGOs like Conservation International. International adaptations have drawn on cross-cultural education networks and exchanges with institutions including the British Council and universities such as the University of British Columbia and University of Melbourne. Outreach efforts have included summer institutes, teacher exchanges, and curriculum localization projects linked to programs supported by multilateral development actors like the World Bank and regional bodies such as the Organization of American States.

Awards and Recognition

Over its history the initiative and its contributors have received recognition from conservation and education bodies akin to awards presented by the National Wildlife Federation, the American Forest Foundation, and civic honors issued by state governors and legislative bodies. Professional accolades have been comparable to fellowships and awards given by institutions such as the American Educational Research Association, the National Science Teachers Association, and regional conservation awards from entities like the Society of American Foresters.

Category:Environmental education