Greenspaces are perfect surroundings for outdoor learning, where engaging with nature can lead to enhanced connectedness to nature and increased environmental knowledge -
'green education'.
Here, at the University of Essex, we have been conducting research into ecological literacy in communities around the world for a number of years. In this time, we have looked at the importance of conserving ecological knowledge in terms of resource management and cultural preservation, current patterns of knowledge loss and erosion pressures, and the capacity for reconnection with nature through in-depth engagement.
We are currently conducting research into the importance of outdoor learning,
the health and wellbeing impacts of bushcraft particpation, the factors influencing a person's engagement with environmental issues, and the role of cultural revitalisation projects in reconnecting people with nature.
We have investigated the impact of
environmental volunteering on behaviours and attitudes to the
environment. We have evaluated the use of an allotment for outdoor
play, learning and pupil development in primary school children.
We have also looked at the effect of introducing green exercise interventions during children’s school playtime on physical activity behaviour and psychological wellbeing.
Our
recent occasional paper looks at the relationship between nature,
children, health and life pathways.
|
