Special Applications for CAPS
The Community Action & Problem-Solving (CAPS) process is a great, flexible framework that can be sued to advance learning in many subjects and disciplines. Our Earth Force educators have facilitated the CAPS process for students from elementary through high school, during class and in after-school groups, and in biology, chemistry, natural science, art, English and social studies classes!
"THE BEND IN THE ROAD IS NOT THE END OF THE ROAD UNLESS YOU REFUSE TO TAKE THE TURN."
Though we come to every unique situation ready to create a solution that works for each individual teacher, we have learned some solid ways to make CAPS successful with the following specific emphases:
CIVIC EDUCATION
The CAPS process is the perfect model for civic learning. The process emphasizes community engagement, social responsibility, and civic participation. Many Earth Force students come to understand that young people can take an active role in their communities, and can be vocal actors in the world around them. Working through CAPS introduces young people to important basic democratic principles, too!
PLACE-BASED SERVICE LEARNING FOR SCIENCE
Many of our educators have used CAPS to enhance their biology, chemistry, natural science or environmental science curriculum. We find that for these science classes, a "place-based" approach works very well!
We encourage Earth Force science classes to adopt a nearby natural area - perhaps a river, wetland or open-space grassland - as a focus for their studies and service. Studying the site's ecology, the youth can gain first-hand knowledge of local plants and animals, water quality, biodiversity and other environmental issues. An Earth Force staff member and professional ecologist can assist by taking monthly excursions to the site with the students.
As with all CAPS experiences, the process culminates in a service project of the students' design. That project specifically addresses the needs of the adopted area, allowing the students to apply classroom lessons to a real-life situation in their community.
YOUTH LEADERSHIP
Some of our Earth Force sites have taken their commitment to youth leadership through service one step further by forming a Youth Council, which acts as the voice for students in their school. A Youth Council uses the CAPS process specifically to address important issues in the school and its surrounding community.
Youth Councils typically meet outside of class time, under the direction of an advisor, and maintain a strong relationship with school administration, to ensure that student concerns are being heard. A Youth Council can be an important step in developing a democratic school culture that honors youth input, community service, and youth leadership.
