Sense of Place Learning

MISSION STATEMENT SPL’s Mission is to raise the awareness, knowledge, and appreciation of the unique ecology, history, heritage and artistic works of the places we live. SPL’s interdisciplinary, place-based educational programs and materials are
designed to enhance local residents’ sense of self, community pride, and civic engagement.

Paula G. Purnell, D.Ed., is an educator and owner of Sense of Place Learning (SPL.)  Before forming SPL, Dr. Purnell served as an Assistant Professor in the Professional Studies in Education Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She is an accomplished musician, and has released eight albums of original music, including three Parent’s Choice award-winning children’s albums. With her band, The NewLanders, Dr. Purnell researches, records, and performs roots music of western Pennsylvania, and has toured extensively, both regionally and internationally.

SENSE OF PLACE LEARNING: HISTORY

Sense of Place Learning, LLC (SPL) was established in 2009. Whether protecting the environment or preserving cultural heritage, Sense of Place Learning recognizes that inspiring social action and civic engagement depends on first establishing meaningful connections to the places where we live.  Dr. Purnell  brings years of experience in educational research, project development and assessment, environmental education, and arts integration to SPL’s programs and educational materials. The SPL curriculum model aligns with state and national academic standards and inspires learning through interdisciplinary, place-based projects and activities.

APOST (Allegheny Partners for Out-Of-School Time) Quality Campaign. The Quality Campaign is made up of member organizations that have all gone through a Quality Self-Assessment process and have committed to a continuous quality improvement process. Sense of Place Learning was featured in their 2017-2018 postcard series.

PLACE-BASED EDUCATION

Research in the evolving field of place-based education indicates that individuals’ sense of self, motivation to learn, and community engagement are enhanced through meaningful interactions with their immediate physical and cultural environments.

Place-based education (PBE) immerses students in local heritage, cultures, landscapes, opportunities and experiences, using these as a foundation for the study of language arts, mathematics, social studies, science and other subjects across the curriculum. PBE emphasizes learning through participation in service projects for the local school and/or community (from www.promiseofplace.org).