Our Wondrous Earth

This lesson introduces preschoolers to the wonders of the earth through exploration of various biomes found around the world. The goal is to make learning an interactive and memorable experience and to foster excitement about the diversity in our world, not just in humans and animals, but in nature. Grades: Early Childhood (Pre K-2)Time: Variable…

Read more »

We Fit Together

This lesson aims to teach students that they matter as individuals, that we have things in common, and that they bring special qualities to society. Grades: Early Childhood (Pre K-2)Time: 45-60 minutes Related IHE Resources: Early Childhood Humane Education Book List

Read more »
What Should We Teach?

What Should We Teach?

What should we teach students in school? Given the realities of globalization, constantly evolving technologies, rapidly shifting job opportunities, and a planet in peril from climate change, it’s important to re-evaluate the body of knowledge and skillsets that we require children to obtain. It helps to come to this task with a beginner’s eyes, unfettered…

Read more »
humane education

Transforming Education and the World: An Interview with Steve Cochrane, IHE’s New Executive Director

Passionate about preparing young people to lead lives of joy and purpose, Steve Cochrane has had a remarkable journey through the field of education. It is a journey that has taken him from the campus of Princeton University where he served as an admissions officer and an assistant dean of students to the classroom of…

Read more »
What’s Wrong With Education and How to Make It Right

What’s Wrong With Education and How to Make It Right

Most people in industrialized countries have experienced 13 years of formal schooling, so it is not surprising that many consider themselves to be legitimate critics of education. Our feelings about schooling run the gamut. Some believe that if the curriculum and pedagogy were good enough for them, they should be good enough for children today. Others…

Read more »
Water Issues

Wildlife Issues

Find suggested books, websites, articles, videos, lesson plans, activities and other resources on wildlife conservation, habitat, and protection issues to help you learn and/or teach about this topic. Curated by the Institute for Human Education.

Read more »
Reimagining Education: Why Changes are Needed and What We Can Do

Reimagining Education: Why Changes are Needed and What We Can Do

In the United States, the current purpose of schooling is expressed in the mission statement at the U.S. Department of Education website: to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access. Is this mission sufficient and appropriate for students whose future is threatened by global problems they will be required…

Read more »
Creating a Globally Competent Generation: An Interview with Dana Mortenson

Creating a Globally Competent Generation: An Interview with Dana Mortenson

Introduction: Dana is the Co-Founder and CEO of World Savvy, a national education nonprofit working to educate and engage youth as responsible global citizens. World Savvy supports change agents in K-12 education to create more inclusive, adaptive schools that ensure all young people can develop the skills and dispositions needed to thrive in a more…

Read more »