Critical analysis of obtaining desired outcomes from voluntary programmes (Science for Conservation: 28)

Ringer, M.

Department of Conservation

1996

Department of Conservation

science.publications@doc.govt.nz

This literature review seeks to identify factors that promote the development of pro-conservation values and behaviours in voluntary participants in conservation programmes that are sponsored by the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai – in New Zealand. The review examines factors in the design and implementation of conservation programmes that lead to positive outcomes for participants and the governing agency.

The active participation in practical conservatiton projects provides an ideal opportunity for group leaders to maximise participants’ learning through active experience, reflection on their experience, meaningful discussion about their experience, and revision of their knowledge and values about conservation.

This conscious harnessing of the principles of experiential learning maximises the potential to increase volunteers’ pro-conservation behaviours. Other factors that influence volunteers’ adoption of long term pro-conservation behaviours include developing participants’ knowledge of environmental issues, knowledge of environmental action strategies, environmental action skills, environmental sensitivity, spiritual attunement to the land, emotional arousal and commitment to action. Viewing voluntary participation in conservation projects as a leisure experience enables group leaders to understand the motivation of participants and hence may provide a means by which leaders can maximise volunteer motivation for continued participation in volunteer programmes.

Recommendations for the design and implementation of voluntary conservation programmes include the application of experiential learning techniques where participants are encouraged to reflect on and learn directly from their experience in the context of a cooperative collaborative group. Strategies required to maximise both participant satisfaction and long term change in participants’ pro-conservation behaviour are listed and the competencies required by staff who lead such programmes are outlined.

Keywords:

Conservation, Outdoors, Parks, National Parks, Volunteer,  

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National

Outdoor Recreation

Outdoors

National Parks, Organised

Benefits, Delivery, Impacts - environmental, Participation, Planning, Volunteers

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June 27, 2012