Strive for a paradigm shift toward sophisticated, fully systemic approach to EE.

Having so many different programs offered by so many different sources can result in some fragmentation or diffusion of the systemic view of the environment, and, therefore, some confusion or breakdowns in understanding about environmental conservation and associated issues. Among EE programs there is typically only limited coordination or leveraging of resources, and limited communication and cooperation. This creates inefficiencies and some amount of ineffectiveness for the public seeking quality EE programming. This is not to say that EE projects which deal with only one specific segment or component of the environment (e.g. water, air, hazardous waste) are not valid. Rather, it is a realization that those narrow subject areas are not as effective as they might be if supported and "leveraged" along with an understanding of the "bigger picture" that provides context and perspective. From an educational standpoint, both strategies are needed. This goal is offered as a vision to minimize fragmentation and episodic education and to maximize the potential for learners to better grasp the environmental system as a whole.

1. Create a team responsible for researching current models of systemic EE, developing suggestions for best practices, and sharing them with the EE community in Colorado.
   1. Develop framework/systems to support true cooperation.
2. Actively support on-going conversation about systemic EE.
   
   1. Start one conversation this year about creating opportunities to build a systemic approach for EE.
   2. Create activities to increase awareness of systemic EE options at EE community gatherings.
3. Collectively cooperate to build on one another's EE programs.
   1. Create "scaffolding" effect for lifelong learners in Colorado (comprehensive scope and sequencing action plan).
   2. Create and support a template for work on EE (foundation, map, guidelines, conceptual framework).
4. Demonstrate how EE addresses environmental literacy.
   1. Create and conduct a baseline environmental literacy assessment.
   2. Track and evaluate learners' questioning and analysis skills; knowledge of environmental processes and systems; skills for understanding and addressing environmental issues; and personal/civic responsibility.

How are you already contributing - or - how will you contribute to Goal VII: Systemic EE?