Experiential learning in a problem-based course on urban forest planning and management

Environmental management in urban spaces involves creative problem-solving with regard for public communication, economics, and socio-political dynamics. As post-secondary institutions provide increasing opportunities for developing these skills, there is little discussion about pedagogical approaches in urban forestry and sustainability programs. A seminar format university course was designed and implemented to teach management planning in urban forestry. The course used experiential learning to enhance student capacity in identifying problems and proposing novel solutions to classroom-confined and live case studies in environmental management. Focus group participants valued the incorporation of operational aspects into post-secondary education, as well as reflective opportunities provided through peer-to-peer learning and evaluation and opportunities for autonomous active experimentation. Students experienced a positive shift in perceptions of operational staff, underscoring the importance of arborists' work and their experiential knowledge. The experiential framework thusly provides a valuable opportunity to introduce real-world management to students within a safe space for exploration.