Project-Based Learning (PBL)

NatureMapping: Tips and Resources

Helpful hints from NatureMapping on a variety of topics, including starting a program, assessing your program, and best practices for mentoring relationships.

February 23, 2012

Your content has been saved!

Go to My Saved Content.

Started in 1992, NatureMapping grew from the big idea of developing an international biodiversity database for use by scientists and the public. And who better to add to it than students? Across the world, students, teachers, and communities are working together to identify and record species in their areas to contribute to the database, which in turn gives scientists a tool for research and conservation efforts. NatureMapping teaches students about science while making a real contribution to the field.

Editor's Note: Since we first reported this story, NatureMapping moved from the University of Washington to become an independent foundation, which gave the program more freedom to integrate student field research projects and the latest technology for data collection and analyses. The Adopt-a-Farmer Project has been going strong for more than a decade, and now every grade in the Waterville Elementary School participates. Click here for an interactive map of all NatureMapping projects.

Getting Started Tips

Want to start a full-time-learning model in your community? Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or community member, these tips will help you get going.

Do your research:

Recruit good people:

Develop a business plan:

Sell the project:

Involve the students:

Getting Started Links

Check out these websites for more information about establishing your own program.

Mentoring Tips

Mentors function as kids’ bridge to reality. But often hindered by lack of training and time, how do mentors make a lasting impression? Seasoned mentors and educators share their tips:

Mentoring Links

Check out these websites for more information about mentoring.

Relationship-Building Tips

Here are some tips for forming and keeping lasting school-community relationships.

Relationship-Building Links

Check out these websites for more information about developing community partnerships.

Assessment Tips

What measures do educators and administrators take in evaluating the success of a full-time learning program? Following is a short tip list for assessing program and student achievements.

Assessment Links

Check out these websites for more information about assessment of your own students and/or program.

Assessment Tools

Learn about the assessment tools used nationally by after-school programs.

State and International Standards and Benchmarks

Locate and review the standards for your state and subject.

Share This Story

  • email icon

Filed Under

Follow Edutopia

  • facebook icon
  • twitter icon
  • instagram icon
  • youtube icon
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
George Lucas Educational Foundation
Edutopia is an initiative of the George Lucas Educational Foundation.
Edutopia®, the EDU Logo™ and Lucas Education Research Logo® are trademarks or registered trademarks of the George Lucas Educational Foundation in the U.S. and other countries.