Step 4: Evaluating a MWEE

Evaluating a MWEE can improve its long-term success and inform the design and implementation of future programs and experiences. The first step is to make sure the ELM meets all the criteria of the MWEE definition, including the essential elements and supporting practices.

Activities in a MWEE must be sustained and connected, providing students the ongoing opportunity to evaluate and communicate the results of their inquiry. Review lesson plans to ensure they provide space and structure for these important outcomes and opportunities for student-directed learning. Look for areas that may need support through community involvement and start reaching out to people before beginning the MWEE.

In addition to classroom learning assessments, tracking outcomes related to environmental knowledge, environmentally responsible behavior, attitudes and dispositions, and environmental literacy skills and disciplinary practices may also be of interest to educators implementing MWEEs. The Developing Student Outcomes for Environmental Literacy in K-12 Education resource can help educators who are developing and implementing environmental education programming, like a MWEE, with K-12 students create their program activities and evaluation plans with their desired student outcomes in mind.