How to Use the Modules
The modules offer prepackaged trainings on arsenic, environmental toxicology, and pesticides. They help introduce, reinforce, and supplement knowledge in these themes. The modules are a type of “toolbox” that allows a trainer to put together educational workshop to increase environmental information that will be later disseminated by promotores. The trainer can vary, but these specific modules consider promotor trainers who would like to expand the environmental science training available to others in their area. The options provided in each module can be utilized in a combination of ways to produce a comprehensive and relevant training for the particular audience that is being is targeted. Customization of the trainings is flexible to time availability, previous knowledge, environmental issue, or learning style.
Each individual module contains sections that deliver theme background information for the trainer, prepackaged training PowerPoint presentation, complementary training videos, dynamic learning assessments, reinforcing hands-on activities, and additional theme resources to expand the learning level of the training. You can use the “topic background” included as both a refresher on the theme or as an initial introduction to the subject that can then be supplemented with the “additional resources” provided. The background information provided in each of the modules lays out basic information needed that will assist the trainer to implementing a basic training. It is encourage that each trainer should modify the provided “training presentations” and “hands-on activities” since the training should be able to adapt to the audience. “Topic extension” and “additional resources” sections have been incorporated to increase the knowledge level from basic to more advanced considering the competency of the audience that will be taught.
The following is a detailed description of the section found in the modules and their purpose:
At the end of the modules a section titled “supplemental materials” has also been provided. The materials in this section can be utilized or applied to the training that is developed. They contain activity handouts to be copied and concept glossary for the bold terms in the background section.
Whether you implement these modules as part of an ongoing promotor certification program or as part of a specific training request, you can adjust this toolbox to effectively carry out environmental education. The ultimately goal is to increase the opportunities for training and available information for promotores on environmental science that can directly impact stakeholders living in the U.S.-Mexico border or adjacent regions. By training promotores, disadvantage populations have the opportunity to received information as well as better understand such information to make a proactive change in their lives as well as their family. This ultimately impacts community choices and wellbeing.
- Module Summary – snap shot of the module topic.
- Learning Objectives – summaries of the knowledge the trainer studying the topic background will gain.
- Topic Background – general information on the topic that will serve as the basis to provide a basic training on the topic.
- Additional Resources – serves as additional Internet based information on the theme that can help the trainer further prepare for the training or can be used during a training as a supplemental handout.
- Training Tools – these are tools that have been developed to help assist the trainer provide a training on the selected topic. They include the following:
- Visual Aids (presentation and videos) – ready-made PowerPoint presentation that can be modified as needed by the trainer depending on the audience knowledge background or learning needs. A video list is also included in the section that can provide audiences with supplemental information during the training.
- Concept Glossary – includes definitions or summary explanations regarding words or ideas presented not touched on by the module background.
- Training Assessments and Extensions – quick assessment of training participant’s understanding of theme or concept; can serve to make corrections or provide further explanations.
- Concept Activities – supplements to the training that will make dry-facts more fun and easier to understand.
At the end of the modules a section titled “supplemental materials” has also been provided. The materials in this section can be utilized or applied to the training that is developed. They contain activity handouts to be copied and concept glossary for the bold terms in the background section.
Whether you implement these modules as part of an ongoing promotor certification program or as part of a specific training request, you can adjust this toolbox to effectively carry out environmental education. The ultimately goal is to increase the opportunities for training and available information for promotores on environmental science that can directly impact stakeholders living in the U.S.-Mexico border or adjacent regions. By training promotores, disadvantage populations have the opportunity to received information as well as better understand such information to make a proactive change in their lives as well as their family. This ultimately impacts community choices and wellbeing.