Course Details:

Foundations of Conservation Learning (formerly Conservation Education: Effective Program Design)

Overview: This course provides zoo and aquarium professionals with a comprehensive overview of how to design, develop, implement, and evaluate learning experiences. Course materials include the latest research and trends in conservation education.

Course Outcomes: Through engaging lessons and activities, participants will learn the essential principles of conservation education. By the end of the course, participants will be better able to:

• Describe and advocate for the role of conservation education within their institution
• Explain the basic principles of conservation behavior change
• Design a project framework that supports conservation learning experiences
• Apply evaluative thinking and processes to their work
• Identify resources, mentors, and networks within AZA to further their project work and careers

At the end of this course, students will have crafted a project centered around the principles of conservation education as they put theory to practice throughout the week.  

Is This Course Right for You? This course is for staff that has either direct responsibility for education experiences or projects at their institutions, or for those staff who have an interest in or connection to, creating experiences that inspire conservation action. Educators, volunteer/docent managers, exhibit design staff, animal care staff, librarians, marketing, development, and public relations staff will benefit from participation in this course. 

Foundations of Conservation Learning – NEW!

Overview: This course provides zoo and aquarium conservation learning leaders with the skills necessary to effectively lead their teams and continue to advance learning initiatives across our field.

Course Outcomes: After completing this course, participants will be better able to:

• Understand and more purposefully develop their leadership style and competencies through the use of an individual development plan 
• Define and describe current principles of behavior change and conservation psychology, and how it relates to their work
• Articulate a strategy for cultivating and sustaining a culture of conservation at their organization
• Articulate a strategy for enhancing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work within their department
• Advocate for the role of conservation learning with senior staff and board members 

Is This Course Right for You? This course is for managers/supervisors and above working either in conservation learning or education departments, or working to advance conservation learning initiatives at their institutions.

Dates: Monday, February 13 through Saturday, February 18, 2023

Location: Oglebay Resort, Wheeling, WV

Course Fees: 

• Early Bird Registration (now through December 12): $1125 with an individual AZA membership/$1325 without an individual AZA membership
• Regular Registration (December 13 through January 16): $1325 with an individual AZA membership/$1525 without an individual AZA membership

To learn more about the courses and register, visit: aza.org/courses

Additional Questions? Email Lauren at azatraining@aza.org