What's new

Using critical ethnography, the researchers explored how high school near-peer mentors in outdoor and experiential education develop critical consciousness of environmental and social justice. Purpose-designed training and curricula rooted in social justice education supported this development. This included staff facilitating equity discussions and supporting the mentors' awareness, skills and behaviours relating to equity, diversity, access and inclusion.

Why it matters in Aotearoa

Many EOTC programmes in Aotearoa use senior students as leaders or helpers. This study suggests that intentional training can build their understanding of equity.

Putting it into practice

Where senior students help lead camps or outdoor days, include facilitated equity discussions in their training and involve them in programme planning and review.

How strong is the evidence

A qualitative critical ethnography. It gives insight into how mentors develop, and the abstract does not report the sample size or location.

What to read

The findings on training and curricula and the recommendations.

Who it's for