Defining a nature-based literacy: A research synthesis review of health-promoting literacies to promote nature engagement

ABSTRACT

Children and youth in contemporary western society spend less time outdoors compared to previous generations. Increased use of technology, lack of green space, and concerns for risk and safety have contributed to a generation of children spending too much time indoors. A disconnection between children and nature has occurred. Our team conducted a research synthesis review of several empirically defined non-traditional literacies (physical literacy, media literacy, health literacy, nutrition literacy, and ecological literacy) to identify common components used to conceptualize, define, and describe a new nature-based literacy. Findings included four common components: (a) Motivation, (b) Knowledge, (c) Competence, and (d) Confidence. Operationalizing nature-based literacy into a set of capability domains are described as a practical way of re-engaging children and youth with the natural world. Recommendations for future research and practice are shared.

KEYWORDS:

• Nature-based activity
• literacy
• health and wellness
• children and youth
• nature-connection

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Michelle Barrette

Michelle Barrette is a PhD Candidate in the interdisciplinary program of the Social Dimensions of Health at the University of Victoria. Her research interests include: nature-based activities; child-nature connection; health promotion; program development. [email protected]

Wanda Boyer

Dr. Wanda Boyer is associate professor in the Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies at the University of Victoria. Her research areas include self-regulation and emotion regulation; violence and victimization in schools; development of playfulness and creativity in young children; the impact of inclusion; and human research ethics. [email protected]

Patti-Jean (PJ) Naylor

Dr. PJ Naylor is emeritus professor and scientist in the Department of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education at the University of Victoria. Her research areas include socio-ecological and setting-based approaches to health promotion; obesity and chronic disease prevention; dissemination, knowledge translation/exchange; implementation and organizational capacity. [email protected]

Nevin Harper

Dr. Nevin Harper is professor in the School of Child and Youth Care at the University of Victoria. His research interests include outdoor and adventure-based education and therapy; human-environmental relationships; experiential and environmental education; ecopsychology; youth and emerging adult development; outdoor risky play. [email protected]