Place-based Education Evaluation Collaborative. 2010.

This 6-page brochure summarizes evaluation data from six place-based education programs representing more than 100 schools (rural, suburban, and urban) covering twelve states.The body of evidence reflects more than 1,000 adult interviews or focus group participants; more than 250 student interviews; more than 900 educator surveys; more than 2,700 student surveys; extensive document review; and dozens of on-site observations.

The findings are clear: place-based education fosters students' connection to place and creates vibrant partnerships between schools and communities. It boosts student achievement and improves environmental, social, and economic vitality.

In short, place-based education helps students learn to take care of the world by understanding where they live and taking action in their own backyards and communities.

Pedagogical Area

place-based education, environment as integrating context (EIC)

Subject Area

science, math, engineering, technology (STEM)

reading, writing, English as a second language

social studies, geography, global studies

environmental science, environmental studies, ecological restoration

cultural history, folklore, racial studies, community studies

Delivery Area

school based

out of school time/after school

whole school change

professional development

Participant Area

student

educator

school

community

Demographic Area

urban

suburban

rural

Age Area

elementary (6-11 years old)

middle school (12-14 years old)

PEEC Tags

Community Mapping Program (CMaP)

Forest For Every Classroom (FFEC)

Litzsinger Road Ecology Center (LREC)

Local Investigations of Natural Science (LIONS)

PEEC Cross-Program (XP)

Project CO-SEED (CO-SEED)

Sustainable Schools Project (SSP)

Trail To Every Classroom (TTEC)