Outdoor Education in Canada: A Qualitative Investigation

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Outdoor Education in Canada: A Qualitative Investigation
Language: English
Authors: Asfeldt, Morten, Purc-Stephenson, Rebecca (ORCID 0000-0003-2122-7557), Rawleigh, Mikaela, Thackeray, Sydney
Source: Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning. 2021 21(4):297-310.
Availability: Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 14
Publication Date: 2021
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Outdoor Education, Foreign Countries, Experiential Learning, Physical Activities, Elementary Secondary Education, Postsecondary Education, Summer Programs, Adventure Education, Educational Philosophy, Individual Development, Spiritual Development, Skill Development, Consciousness Raising
Geographic Terms: Canada
DOI: 10.1080/14729679.2020.1784767
ISSN: 1472-9679
Abstract: Outdoor education (OE) is a broad term referring to organized outdoor learning . Given Canada's large size, sparse population, varied landscapes and diverse culture , developing a comprehensive understanding of the philosophies, goals and activities of OE in Canada is challenging. While Canada has a long history of OE, scholars struggle to articulate the 'Canadian way(s)' of OE. Therefore, this study seeks to describe the philosophies, goals, and activities of Canadian OE programs to stimulate the development of a deeper understanding of Canadian OE. An interpretative phenomenological analysis framework was used to explore 22 participant's descriptions of their OE programs. Findings indicate that OE in Canada is influenced by a blend of philosophies that include hands-on experience, integrated learning, and journeying through the land. Common goals include personal growth and building community integrated with place consciousness and environmental goals. Hiking, canoeing and kayaking, skiing and snowshoeing were the most common activities.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2022
Accession Number: EJ1323101
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Outdoor education (OE) is a broad term referring to organized outdoor learning . Given Canada's large size, sparse population, varied landscapes and diverse culture , developing a comprehensive understanding of the philosophies, goals and activities of OE in Canada is challenging. While Canada has a long history of OE, scholars struggle to articulate the 'Canadian way(s)' of OE. Therefore, this study seeks to describe the philosophies, goals, and activities of Canadian OE programs to stimulate the development of a deeper understanding of Canadian OE. An interpretative phenomenological analysis framework was used to explore 22 participant's descriptions of their OE programs. Findings indicate that OE in Canada is influenced by a blend of philosophies that include hands-on experience, integrated learning, and journeying through the land. Common goals include personal growth and building community integrated with place consciousness and environmental goals. Hiking, canoeing and kayaking, skiing and snowshoeing were the most common activities.
ISSN:1472-9679
DOI:10.1080/14729679.2020.1784767