Habitat Ecology for Educators
Habitat Ecology for Educators is a creative way to integrate multiple subjects and research-based pedagogical strategies to teach science! The learning experiences in this course, which align with NYS Elementary Science Standards and Common Core Learning Standards, will help teachers strengthen their content knowledge of animal habitats, evolution, biology, and ecology. Teachers will also develop pedagogical skills like utilizing inquiry-based learning, teaching for conceptual change, and designing with a culturally responsive lens to enhance students’ understanding of life science. In addition, teachers will develop specific strategies to highlight the impact that human activities can have on wildlife and wild places in a way that inspires students to take conservation action. Finally, teachers will learn how to utilize the exhibit spaces at the zoo to support authentic learning. Each teacher will receive access to WCS Curriculum and supplemental resources to help encourage students to explore the richness of ecology– both in the classroom and in a local park, nature center, or zoo.Please note: While this course is designated with ASPDP for a specific grade band, educators of all grade levels are welcome to participate. For further questions, feel free to contact teacherinfo@wcs.org.
Location: Bronx Zoo
Dates: Monday, August 3 - Saturday, August 8
Times: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm per session
Price: $250
Course is eligible for: 45 CTLE Hours & 3 P-Credits or A+ Credits
Please note that this course includes 1-2 miles of walking outside. All paths are wheelchair accessible, see our webpage for Bronx Zoo Accessibility. If you have any concerns, please contact your instructor. For more information see the Bronx Zoo's Know Before You Go page.
For more information about Professional Development courses, please contact: teacherinfo@wcs.org or (718) 220-5136.
Meet Your Instructor
Becky Higgins (she/her)
Becky is the Manager of Professional Development (Teacher Education) at WCS. She is passionate about working with educators and creating equitable access to conservation and climate education for all. As a former science educator, curriculum specialist, and professional learning manager, Becky has remained fully committed sharing climate change education, conservation, and environmental advocacy and leadership opportunities for teachers, particularly urban science educators. Becky is especially passionate about ocean conservation and has conducted research on white shark migration and on pilot whale communication. Becky received her Bachelor of Science from Cornell University where she studied biology, marine science, and education and holds a Master of Science in Education from Johns Hopkins University. Becky continues to center her work on expanding conservation and advocacy work to amplifying opportunities for educators and their students!