Nature Journaling and Online Experiential Learning Seminars: Fostering Place Attachment while Promoting Pro-Environmental Attitudes and Nature Stewardship among University Students using PebblePad

Grant Recipients

Kelsey Johansen, Recreation and Leisure Studies

Natalie Chow, Centre for Teaching Excellence

Description

This project investigates student learning and alternative approaches to teaching and assessment in a second year Recreation and Leisure Studies Course.

The Instructor will collaborate with Online Learning Assistants (OLAs) and a CTE Liaison to create 10 seminars that promote experiential, place-based, outdoor learning experiences which foster place attachment, pro-environmental attitudes, environmental concern, and nature stewardship in an otherwise online course. Pre- and post-test surveys will assess levels of these values using an established scale. Between tests, students will undertake the seminars, and accompanying formative and summative reflective assignments through a PebblePad portfolio.

Survey results will be compared to determine changes in attitudes and values as a result of seminar engagement. Thematic analysis of PebblePad portfolios will shed light on the depth and breadth of place-based, outdoor, experiential learning achieved and provide insights into how online learning and remote course delivery impacts students’ achievement of experiential, place-based, outdoor learning outcomes.

References

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