The Prairie Wetlands Learning Center (PWLC) recently completed the second annual evaluation report for the 2004-5 Prairie Science Class (PSC). The purpose of the evaluation is to document program outcomes, improve the program, and to provide stakeholder justification. This ongoing formative evaluation continues to indicate an overall successful program in both terms of student achievement and meeting the mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The evaluation again addressed four research questions related to student academic learning and skill building, student attitudes toward learning and the environment, and meeting needs of students, parents, and stakeholders.  Three instruments were used including Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA), student skills self-report, and a parent survey.

Statistical analysis of MCA test scores indicated PSC students' scores in math, reading and writing were not significantly different from their counterparts in traditional Fergus Falls school district classrooms. They scored equal to or higher than state averages in reading and above state averages in three of four areas of math. Results indicate a need to improve student learning in writing, particularly narrative writing.

Results of the student skills self report indicate a positive, statistically significant increase in science process, problem solving, and their skills in working cooperatively and communicating with others.

Results of the parent survey and written comments provided by parents and students indicate PSC students have a more positive attitude toward learning, a more positive attitude toward the prairie wetlands environment, a stronger stewardship ethic, and a stronger sense of civic responsibility than their peers in traditional classrooms.

Results from the parent survey and written comments provided by parents and students indicate the PSC meets their needs.  Based upon continued and growing support from the Fergus Falls School District, the PSC continues to meet district needs.  The school district continues to advocate for a bonding bill to the state legislature and governor which would fund building expansion and double attendance in the PSC.  Based upon continued and growing support from the Service, the PSC continues to meet the needs of the Service.  According to the results of the parent survey, 96 percent of respondents indicated that their child’s involvement in the PSC motivated their family to visit the PWLC, supporting local outreach into the community.

The report concludes the continuation of the PSC is appropriate and further recommends program and building expansion, increased supervision of bus rides, increased time spent outside, an expanded evaluation, development of formal partnerships with colleges, and application to shaping the future of environmental education in the National Wildlife Refuge System.

The complete evaluation report will be available soon from the PWLC web site.