HCMN Advanced Training Policies
The purpose of Advanced Training (AT) is to provide Texas Master Naturalists an opportunity to focus their interests on one, or a few, specific topics that interest them. Also, AT on an annual basis promotes continued learning and development. AT is a benefit in itself, providing the experienced Master Naturalist with tools to work in more advanced volunteer efforts.
AT courses may be made available directly through Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, or any number of short courses provided by universities or nature centers. One way for a chapter’s trainees to meet their AT requirements is by actually sponsoring the AT sessions. The Chapter’s AT Committee must pre-approve all AT opportunities before the volunteer reports the hours. Educational television shows are not a form of AT and therefore should not be approved as such. AT hours are also counted one hour for each hour of AT; however, travel time is not included for AT hours. Pre-approval must be obtained for an AT session that is outside the Chapter boundaries.
The AT Committee uses the following criteria and asks the following questions of the opportunity when reviewing and approving AT opportunities:
Does the AT opportunity:
1. Promote continued learning and development of naturalist skills?
2. Provide Master Naturalists with knowledge and skills to work in volunteer efforts?
3. Direct trained volunteers toward specific programs in need of their services?
4. Provide practical information and training for application in volunteer efforts?
5. Take advantage of local partnerships?
6. Provide Master Naturalists an opportunity to focus their interests in one or a few specific topics?
7. Build on the core curriculum initially provided by the local chapter?
8. Provide natural resource management issues and information applicable to Texas?
Class members who are still in training may begin tracking AT hours beginning from the first date of class, but should report hours only after the topic of reporting hours has been covered in class.
Master Naturalists must complete eight hours of advanced training within a year after completing the training class to become certified. Eight hours of advanced training are required each year after that to retain certification. Meeting the advanced training requirement is easy, because there are so many intriguing opportunities for gaining additional knowledge, including presentations, seminars, field trips to unique areas, and other events.
Most of our advanced training is acquired by attending community events which are open to the public and can be a source of valuable information for you, whether you are a Master Naturalist or not. As advanced training opportunities occur, our Advanced Training Director notifies members directly, and details are posted on our
Events Calendar. Check the calendar often to learn about interesting and informative programs in our area.
If you are organizing an event, or are aware of one that matches our interests, and would like to have it approved for Master Naturalist advanced training, contact Steve Dodge at
sadodge@ctesc.net or 830 990 0928 to get it on the list.
