The development of the Czech concept of education in nature: A tribute to Jan Neuman

ABSTRACT

In the Czech Republic there has been a growing interest in education in nature [výchova v přírodě] in connection with accreditation as a field of study. Outdoor experiential educator Jan Neuman, who died in April 2021, was instrumental in the development and formalisation of Czech education in nature programmes over the past 50 years. The aim of this review is to highlight the culturally unique, holistic and multi-disciplinary approaches of the concept of education in nature within the Czech environment, comparing this term with outdoor education internationally. Such cross-referencing of different cultural and indigenous variants aims to enhance outdoor physical activity opportunities in natural environments. We define education in nature in the Czech Republic and highlight the historical development of education in nature, with a focus on turistika activities, summer camps [tábory], and holistic dramaturgy approaches that elaborate on the cultural heritage and unique Czech approach to education in nature.

KEYWORDS:

• Education in nature
• Czech republic
• turistika
• summer camps
• dramaturgy
• indigenous

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

A. J. Martin

Dr Andy Martin is a professor of sport management and physical education at Massey University, New Zealand. Educated in England, his PhD and subsequent publications over the past 25 years have focused on disseminating a range of culturally unique and holistic approaches linked to Czech education in nature initiatives.

I. Turčová

Dr Ivana Turčová is the head of the Department of Turistika, Outdoor Sports and Education in Nature, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.

T. Brtník

Tomáš Brtnik is a lecturer in the Department of Turistika, Outdoor Sports and Education in Nature, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.

J. Neuman

Dr Jan Neuman was an associate professor and former head of the Department of Turistika, Outdoor Sports and Education in Nature, Charles University, Prague. He has been foremost in the development of Czech education in nature programmes over the past 50 years.