The Institute for Environmental Learning has developed a number of (non-credit) professional learning opportunities or micro-credentials offered to educators in field-based settings to go deeper (and farther) with your Environmental Learning and Professional Development. The courses will contribute towards a planned Certificate in Environmental Learning and Leadership (Fall 2026) to be offered in association with community partners.
What is a Micro-credential?
According to the BC Ministry of Postsecondary Education, Micro-credentials are short, focused programs that teach skills needed for jobs or community needs. They are recognized by employers and schools and can help you continue your education.
Benefits
Micro-credentials provide opportunities for individuals to obtain new skills quickly. Key to their development is partnership and collaboration with local communities. The competencies learners gain are relevant and recognized on a university transcript.
Micro credentials are also shorter, lower cost and have more flexible options, so they increase access to post-secondary education. They are recognized and accepted as a valid form of skill and/or knowledge development and are encouraged by UNESCO & the BC government.
Course descriptions
ELSE 452 (Eco-Learning and Sustainability Experience) 100 contact hours
This experiential learning opportunity assists educators to examine problems related to increasing youth awareness and understanding of ecology, culture and environment in formal and informal learning settings (e.g. eco-learning). The course also explores bio-cultural diversity through an interdisciplinary lens that relates historical and contemporary issues with emerging perspectives such as eco-justice, climate literacy and others. Environmental themes will vary among yearly offerings.
ELSE 454 (Eco-Learning and Sustainability, Policy and Practice) 100 contact hours
This course, the second experiential learning opportunity (prerequisite ELSE 452) assists educators to examine contemporary policy and practice as they relate to education about ecology, culture and environment in formal and informal learning settings across Canada and internationally (e.g. eco-learning). Normally the course is taken in a different context / location than the first course. Course content typically explores environmental controversies or local issues (eco-justice, food security, etc).
ELSE 453 (Eco-Learning and Sustainability, Project or Portfolio) 50 contact hours
This capstone opportunity (prerequisite ELSE 452 and pre/co-requisite ELSE 454) facilitates the development of a project or portfolio that demonstrates mastery of eco-learning principles and personal growth. The course may be taken in the same context as previous courses and can be taken in tandem with ELSE 454. Typically, projects feature an application of knowledge gained in the program and demonstrates a thorough understanding of eco-learning curriculum, policy, or practice.