RESEARCH INTERESTS

I am most intrigued by human behavior theories. How well are different theories able to predict behavior? What are their other strengths and weaknesses? What are implications for designing, implementing, and evaluating environmental education programs and communication interventions?

So far, I have focused on a model by Hungerford and Volk (1990) on which most leading environmental education efforts are currently based as well as two theories from cognitive psychology useful for communicators. My research has tested these models through experimental evaluations of environmental education programs and surveys.

For the most part, the above research has been conducted to address two specific environmental needs. The first, to sustain (Great Lakes) fisheries and aquatic ecosystems imperiled by introduced species, habitat loss, over-fishing, and other factors. The other, to promote understanding of risk analysis and involvement in risk management.

[Risk analysis involves determining levels of risk and their significance. Risk management consists of evaluating options for mitigating these risks. Research in this domain is needed because of governments' increasing reliance on risk analysis to manage environmental threats.]