Environmental Education Network: Developing a Frame to Grow Ecological Literacy In Edmonton, Alberta

Abstract

This thesis explores environmental education as a network that connects urban and natural environments to encourage transformation towards a more inquisitive and nature integrated society. A study of environmental education, focusing on barriers to change and pedagogical methodologies, provides a foundation to formulate an architectural response. In this response architecture becomes an intermediary binding culture and environment, acting as both scaffold and frame for ecological learning within Edmonton, Alberta. An architectural framework, informed by place and its specificities, is developed supporting educational moments of experience, reflection, research, and participation. These qualities are then developed into the seeds for an educational network consisting of a nature resource center, markers, and a restoration landscape that encourage curiosity, discovery and connections.