A guide to place-responsive pedagogy in the outdoors
Team
Dr Ruth Unsworth (CI)
CenTCS
University of Glasgow
Lucy Sors (PI)
York St John University
Abstract
Published in partnership between the British Educational Research Association (BERA) and Emerald Publishing, the guide reframes outdoor learning through the lens of place‑responsive pedagogy — an approach that prioritises relationships between learners, their local environments, and broader contexts, rather than reducing “place” to mere geography or measurable outcomes. It responds to contemporary societal, environmental, and educational challenges, aiming to renew children and young people’s relationships with the world around them, while offering practical strategies for educators in primary, secondary, and higher education settings.
Keywords
place-responsive pedagogy; learning outdoors