Kara Salazar Indiana University~Purdue University Center for Earth and Environmental Science

• Watershed concepts and management techniques (link to Hypoxia in Gulf of Mexico)
• Biogeochemistry and sediment metal transport and deposition
• Function of riparian systems
• Classification and function of wetlands
• Population studies of flora (invasive exotic species vs. native plants, species vs. individuals, species diversity)
• Population studies of fauna (birds, butterflies, dragonflies, wildlife habitat)
• Adverse human impacts on the environment
• Environmental restoration
• Water quality (combined sewer overflows, benefits of riparian corridors)

• Conducting field research
• Collecting data

• Drawing conclusions from data
• Connection between classroom theory and concepts and applied learning

• Scientific report writing
• Environmental stewardship

Undergraduate entry level

• Group instruction is tailored to introductory undergraduate earth and environmental science students with little background knowledge.
• The work day activities are utilized as applied teaching tools for geologic and environmental concepts.

• Stand alone
• Students choose between the service learning project and writing a summary report, integrating course concepts to the work day activites (or)
• Researching and writing a paper applicable to course concepts

Dependent upon project activities and goals of program.

Logistical challenges include those associated with coordinating and facilitating large group instruction. A pre-registration process is recommended. Group activities should be sub-divided into smaller groups when appropriate to allow for increased participation levels. Outdoor safety factors and first aid should also be taken into consideration.

When working with community partners, clear goals and objectives for the partnership and work day projects are essential for a successful program. Well planned and organized partnerships, work days, and field instruction benefit all parties involved.

Connection made between course concepts and applied learning at project site.

Course evaluations

CEES coordinates and facilitates an environmental service learning program for IUPUI undergraduate students in introductory science courses each spring and fall semester. The service learning work days are predominately conducted at CEES research sites throughout central Indiana in conjunction with community partners. Work day activities involve restoring wetland and floodplain ecosystems and combating nonpoint source pollution through agricultural field tile removal, native plant installation, invasive exotic plant species eradication, and hill slope stabilization. Working on these projects provides the students with an opportunity to directly experience many of the topics discussed in their courses as well as to observe how communities can work together to solve environmental problems.