Education


 

What is a RiverClassroom?

 

INTRODUCTION

What is RiverClassroom?

RiverClassroom is an educational series developed by the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council. It provides students with an opportunity to learn about the natural, cultural, historical aspects of the John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor. The majority of the education takes place aboard the Blackstone Valley Explorer; walking tours and in-school programs complement this educational experience.

RiverClassroom Programs

  • Heritage Studies

  • River Science Investigation (RSI)

  • Wild about Wetlands

  • Views of the Valley

  • River In The Classroom

Our RiverClassroom Programs offer:

  • Flexibility

  • Adaptability

  • Hands-On

  • Explore “the treasures and wonders of their own backyard”

  • Awareness

  • Observation

  • Inquiry-Based

  • Advocacy for the preservation of the surrounding environment

Presentation

  • Boat Tours aboard the Blackstone Valley Explorer (River Science and/or Heritage)

  • Walking Tours – Ecology and/or Historical

  • Classroom -- slide-show/hands on demonstration

Blackstone River Educational Themes

  • Formation

  • Early Use

  • Water Power

  • Dams

  • Mills and Mill Villages

  • Transportation

  • “America’s hardest working river”

  • Early Ecosystem

  • Industrial Use

  • Pollution

  • Natural Influences

  • Water Quality, Temperature, pH, Dissolved Oxygen

  • Current Ecosystem

  • Floods

  • Wetland/Habitat Restoration

  • Watershed Protection

  • Recycling Strategies

Objectives

  • To identify the Blackstone River as a unique historical and natural resource

  • To understand the impact of human action on the Blackstone River.

  • To gain an increased awareness and appreciation of the Blackstone River’s ecology.

  • To be able to recognize the value of the Blackstone River as a natural resource that balances nature and human use.

  • To promote civic engagement and a change in behavior and attitude toward water and its importance, both locally and globally

Download Brochure | Education Menu

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Blackstone Valley Visitor Center, On the banks of the Blackstone, 175 Main Street, Pawtucket, Rhode Island  02860 
1-800-454-BVTC (2882)  Local: 401-724-2200 Fax: 401-724-1342 info@tourblackstone.com