Cayuga Nature Center’s Spring 2005

Naturalist Training Workshop Wednesdays, 9:00 – 11:00 am March 16, 23, 30 & April 6

Volunteer efforts are absolutely critical to community-based, not-for-profit organizations such as ours, and with a little experience, you can make a real difference!

This weekly, four-class course will give you a glimpse of the possibilities, and prepare you to get involved- from simply "helping out" to leading interpretive classes- at the Cayuga Nature Center. New programs are in the works for Spring, 2005- and we need new energy and new people.

Table of Contents

Background

This Interpretive Naturalist Training Workshop series will cover most of the types of educational programs presented by CNC, as well as specific information on natural history topics and educational techniques.

For individuals interested in:

This workshop is also the first step in a progressive training and internship program at Cayuga Nature Center for those interested in joining our staff of dedicated volunteers and paid instructors. Our staff naturalists will share effective methods for preparing and presenting natural history lessons in a variety of formats, from simple treks to classroom-style lesson plans:

Course Schedule

The course will be presented as a series of four participatory classes. Each class will take place from 9:00am to 11:00am, at the CNC lodge and surrounding property.

March 16: Class #1: Introduction and Philosophy.

A tour of our property will provide opportunities to explore the experience-centered teaching philosophy of the Nature Center. Executive Director Doug Weeks will share insights and experience.

March 23: Class #2: What Makes An Effective Presentation?

Our Animal Curator will introduce our teaching creatures, and we’ll also learn to plan programs that best suit the environs of the Nature Center. Participants will begin preparing a program, according to their interests. We will also tour the Nature Center's farm and compost facility at the end of this class.

March 30: Class #3: Working in a Natural Setting

Many elements contribute to a “teachable moment” in the natural setting. Which can you anticipate? What are the tricks to delivering an effective lesson in nature’s classroom? Participants will refine their presentations during this class.

April 6: Class #4: Delivering Your Program!

Participants will deliver brief presentations, according to the format and topic of their choice. Graduation ceremonies to follow!

Course Requirements

No experience is necessary, just an enthusiasm to learn about the outdoors and to share with others. We urge that you Attend All Four Classes in order to be prepared to volunteer with us, and to be eligible to continue with more in-depth training programs at the site(s) of your choosing. If you cannot make one of the classes, be sure to speak with your instructor to arrange an alternative plan.

Pre-registration is required for this series. Course fee is $25.00. This fee is refundable upon the completion of 20 volunteer hours, and may may be applied toward CNC membership. Call Bill Foster, CNC Naturalist, at (607) 273-6260, or visit www.cayuganaturecenter.org.

All classes will include indoor and outdoor activities; dress accordingly!

What Next?

For information on present and future opportunities to volunteer or intern at the Cayuga Nature Center, go to VolunteerPrograms

Directions to Our Location:

 •   info@cayuganaturecenter.org   •   1420 Taughannock Blvd   •   Ithaca, NY 14850   •   (607) 273-6260   •   Fax: (607) 273-1719   •   Suggestions   • 

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