Peer-reviewed research2017–2026 update
Becoming-place: a rhizomatic exploration of friluftsliv in the Swedish school curriculum
The author argues that school-based friluftsliv in Sweden's PE and health curriculum is dominated by a conservative, activity-based approach that is out of step with global issues such as climate change.
What's new
School-based friluftsliv (outdoor education) is a significant part of Sweden's physical education and health curriculum and of PE teachers' professional development. Drawing on findings from the author's PhD dissertation, this paper argues that its dominant pedagogy is conservative and driven by activity-based, instrumental thinking. The author argues that this practice has not kept up with global developments such as environmental degradation and climate change.
Why it matters in Aotearoa
Outdoor education in Aotearoa also often sits within Health and Physical Education. This critique invites reflection on whether activity-focused programmes engage with environmental concerns.
Putting it into practice
Review an existing outdoor education unit and identify where activity skills could be connected with learning about the local environment and climate change.
How strong is the evidence
This is a conceptual argument based on the author's doctoral research. The abstract does not describe methods or data.
What to read
The argument about the dominant pedagogy of school-based friluftsliv.