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The
National Geographic Society’s Geography Action! Rivers 2001
seminar and training workshop was held June 28-July 3, in
Washington DC and Shepherdstown, West Virginia. It serves as an
outstanding representation of the National Geographic Society's
continued tradition of promoting the importance of geography and
geographic education. Fifty-four teacher consultants, representing
fifty states, Puerto Rico and Canada participated in a jam packed
agenda, learning more about river related issues and developing
plans and initiatives for their respective areas.
The opening session and
dinner, held at the National Geographic Society headquarters,
included welcomes from National Geographic, the Conservation Fund
and River Council, and the Coca-Cola Company - Geography Action!
Rivers 2001 program sponsors.
Keynote speaker, the Rt. Hon. John Gummer, Member of
Parliament, U.K., set the stage for an intensive, highly
motivating program of activities. Program director, AGA’s own
Michal LeVasseur, presented the first content session concerning
river systems and watersheds. The next morning participants
traveled through the rolling hills of beautiful West Virginia to
the National Conservation Training Center in Shepardstown, by the
banks of the Potomac River.
Michal
did an outstanding job in increasing awareness of the four basic
program topics: river and watershed systems, using rivers,
changing rivers, and saving rivers. Very capable NGS staff members
and teacher consultants, representing New Jersey and Wisconsin
provided insights into the workings of the
NGS web site and lesson plans.
In addition to informative content sessions, water quality
fieldwork and related investigations, and classroom
lesson plans, teachers received training in the use of GIS
(Geographic Information Systems), a
special emphasis on watersheds. They
were also introduced to the new NGS website for Geography Action!
Rivers 2001. And what a site it is! Check out the site at the
following location: www.nationalgeographic.com/geographyaction.
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Participants were
not only privy to incredible learning experiences. They were also
spoiled by the gorgeous countryside, evening walks to class among
twinkling fireflies, interaction with a highly motivated group of
teacher consultants and staff, and “cafeteria” dining at its
best! Teachers came away from the workshop with new and renewed
friendships; state plans for celebrating Geography Action! Rivers
2001 in progress; a support network for sharing ideas; and the
need to go on a diet!
While
past Geography Awareness celebrations have focused on one week in
November, this year’s push will be over a broader time period,
ending in November. Take a look at the Geography Action! Rivers
2001 website for lesson plans, ideas, student interactives, and
links to additional sites. And watch for more information
concerning Alabama’s activities and volunteer to help when
someone calls upon you. Plans include presentations and
representation at the following conferences: ASTA, LAMP, and of
course, Geofest on November 3, at Hewitt-Trussville Junior High
School in Birmingham. Look for contest information concerning
literature connections to rivers and multimedia presentations of
local watersheds as well. This is the year to take action!
Joan Barger, Geography Awareness
Coordinator
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