Conservation Technology
Protecting wildlife and wild places takes more than passion—it requires collecting critical data from elusive species in some of the most remote areas on Earth. It also means working hand-in-hand with local communities to achieve shared goals for preserving natural spaces. At WCS, we use cutting-edge technology that bridges the worlds of animals, people, and both natural and human-built environments. Join us to explore how conservation technology helps us gather data, analyze it, and turn those insights into real-world actions that safeguard wildlife and empower communities!
Connecting Conservation to the Classroom
Learn from a WCS educator about the vital role of conservation technology in today’s world and how these tools support smarter conservation decisions. You'll also get an overview of the included lessons and the objectives for student learning in these activities.
SMART Ranger Patrol
In this lesson, students take on the role of wildlife rangers using simplified tools inspired by the real-world SMART system. They’ll plan patrols, tackle conservation challenges, and make decisions that balance ecological protection with community needs. This team-based activity builds skills in systems thinking, empathy, and real-world problem-solving at the intersection of science, technology, and social studies.
Conservation AI Debate
As AI transforms how we protect wildlife—from tracking species to analyzing remote sounds—important questions arise: Can we trust machines over people? What about local knowledge? In this lesson, students explore the role of AI in conservation through a structured debate, building skills in critical thinking, ethics, and persuasive communication while examining the promises and pitfalls of technology in environmental work.