What's new

This theoretical paper reviews historical and current literature on definitions, curriculum, content and pedagogy in outdoor education. It then explains pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) and its use in other subjects, including mathematics. Building on a PCK framework from mathematics education, the authors propose a modified framework for outdoor education.

Why it matters in Aotearoa

The framework offers a vocabulary for describing what quality outdoor teaching requires. This can help with teacher education, professional learning and appraisal conversations.

Putting it into practice

Use the modified PCK framework in a department or professional learning session to identify the knowledge areas staff feel strong in and those that need development.

How strong is the evidence

This is a theoretical paper. The proposed framework is not empirically tested in the abstract.

What to read

The section presenting the modified PCK framework for outdoor education.

Who it's for