Examples of Yurt Education Experiences
Canadian Network for Environmental Education and Communication,
Salt of the Earth Conference, October 19-22, 2006
· Erected a 16 ft yurt with youth stream participants. We explored
the yurt components and discuss the construction techniques that make
yurts a sustainable shelter. Another objective was to explore the ancient
silviculture technique of coppice to provide round wood material for low
impact building projects. Special emphasis was put on Atlantic tree species
and their practical characteristics for green woodworking.
Atlantic Straw Builders Conference, May 20-22, 2006
· Erected a 16 ft yurt with conference participants. Emphasis was
put on practical issues unique to yurt living, such as heating and insulation
Halifax Independent School, May 9, 2006
· Ran a one-hour workshop with 6-8 year olds for their shelter
and geography class. Students learned about the origin and history of
yurts and erected a 12-foot yurt.
ReGeneration: A symposium on community youth development, March 25, 2006
· Co ran a three-hour workshop with Kim Thompson on natural building,
and how to integrate natural build projects into youth programs. Erected
the 12 foot yurt, discussed yurts as a sustainable resources, demonstrated
tools, and shaving brake.
Alexander Society for Special Needs, Feb 2005
The Alexander Society for Special Needs runs arts-based educational programs
for Special Needs children and teens
· Erected the small yurt, discussed the origins around yurts, and
used the yurt for storytelling and crafts
The Second International Conference on Gross National Happiness,
Rethinking Development: Local Pathways to Global Wellbeing, June
2005
· Erected the yurt with youth participants, and created a natural
build site showcasing various types of natural building
Dalhousie School of Architecture, May 2005 and Aug 2004
(free lab)
· Erected and showcased the yurt. Shared information on the structural
strengths of round wood construction, mandalas in architecture and coppice
as a form of sustainable forestry. Students learned about green woodworking
basics, in order to apply new knowledge to their practical projects
Nova Scotia Youth for Positive Energy, Nov 2004
-Organized by the Sierra Club of Canada –Atlantic Chapter, youth
were brought together from all over Nova Scotia to network with other
youth about their emission reduction projects and climate change
· Erected the yurt to showcase sustainable building and living,
and used the yurt for other workshops
Yurt Education & Shelter Society (YESS) Yurt & Residential
Camp, Nov 12-14, 2004
-YESS is a non-profit organization empowering people to build their own
yurt using natural materials in a creative and ethical manner
· Erected the winter yurt to host 12 members participating in green
woodworking at our yurt making workshop
EcoTopia, July 2004
-A youth-run ecologically sustainable weekend which brings together a
network of environmentally conscious and active young Maritimers
· Erected the yurt as a group, discussed topics around sustainability,
and used the yurt as a workshop space
