Education is a term that is batted around by many people, each with his or her own personal definition of what it means. For some, education is a brochure, for others it is a video tape and for some it is a formal classroom presentation. To others, education is seen as more of a process than a product; a process that includes a variety of products in a variety of settings.

Education, as embodied in this plan, is a process—a three-step process. Education begins with an understanding of the parts of the system under study—obtaining basic information and awareness of an issue. This understanding is further refined through environmental inquiry—choosing an aspect to investigate, defining a problem and gathering information. The education process achieves its objective when behavior change is adopted, and individuals take action based on their inquiry findings. Systems understanding, environmental inquiry and taking action are the three steps that form the backbone of this education plan for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

This plan begins with a brief look at the state of the fish and wildlife resource as it existed at the beginning of the development of this plan. We will then look at current human population trends and needs in Chapter II, to help predict the future human landscape.

Chapter III departs from the traditional needs-assessment process by opening the discussion to the world through emerging electronic technology. Here we will see what the general public thinks our educational needs are.

Chapter IV discusses current educational theories, examples of these theories in action, and how they may apply to WDFW educational strategies.

The foundation of the WDFW belief system (our core values) regarding the fish and wildlife resource is expressed in Chapter V through ethical codes of conduct. The vision, goals, strategies and audiences for WDFW educational offerings are also described.

Chapter VI combines all of the above into three-step educational plans based on systems understanding, environmental inquiry and taking action. Listed are strategies and tasks currently underway or needed.

No plan begins in a vacuum. Similar planning and assessments have been conducted in the past, sometimes with a more limited focus. All of the relevant preliminary work is condensed in the Appendices.

For the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, education is a key element in achieving its conservation and recreation objectives. Effective education requires a planned effort based on thoughtful strategies that address pertinent issues. The adoption of the three-step educational process of systems understanding, environmental inquiry and taking action is the foundation for the department's education successes.