Table of Contents
1. aBOUT THE STUDY
This independent research study explores a central question question: how does learning influence action toward equitable outcomes in U.S. conservation? Inspired by a provocative assertion that “the time for learning is over, it is time for action,” the study investigates not only how conservation-minded volunteers and paid-professionals understand equity but how their learning journeys translate into real-world change or potentially inhibit it.
2. STUDY POSTS
3. study methods
This study aims to speak to 50 people across the United States, who work as professionals and/or volunteers in self-identified conservation organizations, including non-profit and for-profit entities. Individuals will engage through one audio-recorded interview lasting one hour or less either in-person or virtually. Transcript data will be analyzed using Dedoose, a cloud-based qualitative research tool. All study results will be anonymized and posted by themes and learning through individual blog posts.
4. eligibility criteria
Informed by learning question and Mezirow’s Transformation Learning Theory
- Participants who see themselves as lifelong learners, excited to try new approaches, explore new roles, and build confidence in their impact within the conservation community.
- Adults 18+ who care deeply about equity in U.S.‑based conservation and choose to be involved beyond required workplace or organizational mandates.
- People working or volunteering in any conservation role who are open to reflecting on their experiences, questioning old assumptions, and growing through new perspectives.
5. Participation benefits + risks
Participant Benefits: There is minimal direct benefit to participants. Only benefit is a modest thank you gift under $20.
- However, your insights will strengthen collective knowledge and help move the conservation field toward more equitable, human-centered outcomes. This information can inform how conservation practitioners are supported and guide the development of strategies that activate individuals and organizations to advance equity across the field.
Participant Risk: The risks associated with this study are minimal with deep awareness and compassion regarding lived experience with topic.
- I recognize that individuals engaged in equitable conservation work often carry additional, unseen burdens related to addressing systemic challenges that no single person can resolve alone. As a result, this topic may evoke emotional discomfort, particularly given the sensitive nature of experiences, such as discrimination, inequitable power dynamics, and systemic injustice, that frequently shape work in this field.
Voluntary Participation and Withdrawal: Your participation in this study is entirely voluntary.
- Refusal to participate will involve no penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
- You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty.
- You may choose to skip any questions you do not wish to answer.
6. DATA PRIVACY + CONFIDENTIALITY
All data collected will be handled with strict confidentiality and stored securely using encrypted, password-protected local device storage and an encrypted Google Meet workspace for virtual meetings. Transcript data will be kept for three years in accordance with U.S. federal standards with all audio recordings destroyed immediately after analysis. All individual identifiers will be scrubbed immediately from transcript data and subsequent analysis.
7. IRB Approval
Pending
- Study materials submitted to Solutions IRB in January 2026
- Consent Form – Will be linked when approved
- Interview Questions – Will be linked when approved
8. HOW TO PARTICIPATE
If you are interested in participating, please fill out the secure web form to provide your contact information and prequalification details.
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Learning That Moves: Advancing Equity in United States Based Conservation 