Developing and Implementing a Mobile Conservation Education Unit for Rural Primary School Children in Lao PDR

Abstract

In this article, the authors examine the implementation and success of a mobile conservation education unit targeting primary schools in central Lao PDR (People's Democratic Republic). The mobile unit conducted 3-hour interactive programs for school children focused on the importance of wildlife and biodiversity around the primary schools in rural villages. Qualitative and anecdotal information were gathered during and after each program performance in schools, program offices, and villagers’ homes to measure program success. Comparing correct responses between the pre- and posttest results showed a 21% improvement of student posttest scores. Indicators show the Mobile Conservation Education Unit met the program goals and objectives, despite the nature of Lao education and censorship of mass media.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The creation and support of the Mobile Conservation Unit was made possible by the following people and organizations: Arlyne Johnson, Michael Hedemark, Renae Stenhouse, Ian Baird, Soukkhongseng Saignleuth, Dr. Somsy Nhophanxay, Hongpeth Chantavong, Bounthavy Doaungphosy, Phitsakhone Vanisaveth, Kitsana Inthavong, Vilay Phimpasone, the Faculty of Forestry at the National University of Lao PDR and the Wildlife Conservation Society Lao Program. Financial support was provided by the following donors: the Wildlife Conservation Society, Tropical Rainforest Programme Netherlands Commission to the IUCN, Canada Fund, and the World Bank.

This article received external advice from the following people: Jon Atwood, Paul Hertneky, and Susan Gentile, all of the Department of Environmental Studies, Antioch University New England. William Schaedla provided useful comments and edits to improve this article.