Nature Education Assessment Framework (NEAF)
Supported by Inlaks Ravi Sankaran Small Grants
Why do we need nature education, and how do we know whether it is shaping how learners and educators feel, think, and act in relation to the natural world? Or are our programmes becoming just another intervention within an already crowded and stretched education system?
​​These questions surfaced repeatedly in our conversations at Nature Classrooms, prompting us to pause and reflect on whether nature education is truly reaching and making the difference we hope for. As we explored them, it became clear that the challenge was not a lack of interest in assessment, but the lack of approaches that feel meaningful, practical, and grounded in everyday contexts. While several tools exist, many are shaped by contexts from the Global North that do not fully align with socio-ecological realities in India. Conversations with practitioners across regions further highlighted that, although assessments are valued, existing approaches often feel tedious and disconnected from on-ground practice.​​
​About the Nature Education Assessment Framework (NEAF)
The Nature Education Assessment Framework (NEAF) is a foundational, easy-to-use, open-access toolkit developed by Nature Classrooms to help nature educators assess the effectiveness of their programmes and gain insights into how learners connect with the natural world. NEAF captures shifts in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours, the three key dimensions of how learners engage with and relate to nature.
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Shaped and trialled through collaborations with educators from different geographies in India, NEAF offers a set of adaptable qualitative and quantitative tools for nature education practitioners who work with students, as well as those who engage with teachers and educators. The framework also provides tools for practitioners to assess their own approach and practices. These tools are not intended to ‘test’ learners, but instead to spark reflection and dialogue. They encourage close observation and listening not only to what is said, written, or drawn, but also to what is felt and noticed.
​​The Tools in NEAF
Each tool includes guidelines on when and how to use it, along with suggestions for interpreting and reflecting on the insights that emerge. The goal is not standardisation or fixed outcomes, but a deeper understanding of learners and their relationship with the natural world. Throughout NEAF, analysis involves identifying patterns, trends, gaps, and stories.​​​​​​
NEAF - A living Framework
At its core, NEAF is a living framework designed not only to assess but also to support nature education programmes. It provides a structured yet simple approach to assessment while leaving room for adaptation, co-creation, and ongoing evolution. Meant to evolve with practice, NEAF grows through thoughtful refinement and remains guided by how learners experience nature and recognising the many ways in which nature learning unfolds.
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​​​​​Team
Tanaya Rele (Lead - Research and Development of NEAF)
Vena Kapoor & Ovee Thorat (Ideation, Mentorship & Feedback)
Vaibhavi Bhat H S & Krishna Ghediya (Interns)
Shivangi Thakkar (Design)
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You can download the framework below.
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