Playing with words... connecting through story

Abstract

This poster introduces my post-doctoral research project and continues my aim to understand young people’s relationship with nature through inter/transdisciplinary research. One of the key findings from my doctoral study was that the use of stories within outdoor learning can be an effective way to foster familiarity, comfort and connections. My ‘Playing with Words’ project will include auto/ethnographical writing: reflecting on my experiences has the specific purpose of enabling me to understand how this may impact on the way we work (in practice) and on the way, we conduct and present research. I plan to conduct two phases of primary research: first, at the European Institute for Outdoor Adventure Education and Experiential Learning (EOE) seminar in Plymouth to gain a European perspective. Secondly, in Alberta, Canada I aim to gain an international perspective through delivering and reflecting on a ‘playshop’ I have been invited to present at the International Play Association (IPA) conference. I will be conducting field work in Alberta, either side of the IPA conference, to explore public environmental education and education programmes. In late 2016, the Canadian Parks Council launched a new strategy to connect young people with Nature in Canada. Called ‘The Nature Playbook’ (Canadian Parks Council 2016), it utilises a story-based approach, with the aim of guiding and inspiring actions that all Canadians can take to connect a new generation with Nature. I want to see how this is used in practice, and if it is transferable to UK based initiatives. References Canadian Parks Council (2016) The Nature Playbook. URL: http://www.parks-parcs.ca/english/nature-playbook.php Last Viewed: 29/04/201