For many researchers and writers in the environmental and ecological education fields, outdoor and experiential educational methods are understood to be especially powerful for the development of ecological literacy and consciousness in students, both of which are crucial if one is to develop healthier and more respectful ways of interacting with…

Discusses storytelling as transforming process, a crossroads where everyday life and spirits meet. Examines how storytelling can shift one's perspective away from our industrial progress-oriented society toward more nurturing and sustaining communities and an appreciation for nature and wild places. Explains the stages in acting as…

It is ironic that we have coined a phrase "wilderness" to describe a natural state devoid of people, but we have no word to describe a natural state that includes people. A new word, "natominess", is offered that incorporates the notion of balance between humans and nature on a global scale. (TD)

We need a "new story" that replaces materialistic and exploitative cultural values with respect for others and the environment. Creation of this new story begins by retelling our experiences of connecting to nature in the outdoors. "The Universe Story" (Brian Swimme, Thomas Berry) combines spirituality with science to trace…

Queer pedagogy is rife with possibilities for outdoor educators to challenge the status quo of heterosexism and sexism. From recognizing and addressing the heteronormative assumptions that influence the outdoor classroom, to subverting oppressive gender norms, to noticing the cultural constructs through which we view nature, queer pedagogy can…

Calls for developing a more intimate relationship with nature and changing the language used to describe this new relationship. Current language usage results in a separation between humans and nature, with nature being delegated to an inferior position. Change will only be accomplished through altering our hierarchical construction of values. (LP)

A fabricated conversation between two humans and a dolphin at Marineland illustrates man's relationship to nature and the impact that human actions have on living creatures and the environment, and stresses developing a deeper understanding and value for the natural world and consideration of the universality of continued human error and…

A learning activity designed for an Association of Experiential Educators workshop asked participants to lead their group through a maze symbolizing the obstacles and frustration encountered when implementing experiential education programs. Includes goals, set-up, sample presentation, and suggestions for debriefing participants. (LP)

A parable illuminates the important interrelationship among aspects of outdoor education: adventure education, outdoor activities, environmental education, and deep ecology. A second parable illustrates the importance of understanding and connecting with nature and how this can be achieved through direct experience with the natural world. Includes…

Describes strategies for connecting children and adults with nature, including providing opportunities to experience nature through all of the senses, changing the perspective on nature by using the senses to focus on the natural world, and using the natural world to cultivate a sense of awe and wonderment. (LP)

Challenges misconceptions suggesting that outdoor and adventure experiences lead participants to advocate protection of natural areas, to value aesthetic experiences, to appreciate and understand the environment more deeply, to develop a spiritual relationship with the natural world, and to fight for environmental causes. (LP)

The Re-Think Tree is a simple framework to help individuals assess and improve their behaviors related to environmental issues. The branches of the tree in order of priority are refuse, reduce, re-use, and recycle. Roots of the tree include such things as public opinion, education, and watchdog groups. (KS)

Ecopsychology refers to the realization of our interdependence with Nature that lies at the core of the human mind. While this ecological unconscious is recognized by indigenous cultures, Western culture has suppressed it. Five perceptual practices are presented to help uncover it. Because outdoor education takes place in Nature, it is an ideal…

Discusses ways that language misrepresents nature, pointing out that frequently used metaphors and problematic language usage provide limited conceptual and emotional understanding of the natural world and contribute to a degraded view of nature. Discusses strategies for changing language as the first step in changing attitudes toward nature. (LP)

Sustainability (preserving the environment) can become a reality if relevant information in an understandable frame of reference is brought to the public's attention. The public must learn to identify sustainable and nonsustainable activities so they can act in a responsible manner. (KS)