Social Theory and Outdoor Education
Rationale
This course uses social theory to explore outdoor education practice and policy. Particular attention is paid to the ways in which outdoor education programmes influence, and are influenced by, the social contexts in which they take place. The broader contexts of outdoor education groups are explored with regard to the forces of structure and agency that shape them, as well as their potential contribution to understanding principles of equity, equality, and need. Consideration is also given to examining the role of outdoor education in supporting and building local communities.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of the course students will:
- be able to interpret their experiences in relation to a variety of social theories;
- critically examine claims of community building in outdoor education contexts;
- understand the relationships between community development theories and outdoor education;
- understand principles of equity, equality and need in educational contexts;
- understand the implications and normative nature of intentionally highlighting principles, values and moral issues with the groups they may work with.
Teaching, Learning & Assessment Strategies
A variety of teaching approaches are used. Experiences will be used to build and develop understanding of group processes and community building in an inductive approach to learning. Lectures will be used to introduce the main theoretical constructs, which are further developed through small group work and independent study. Students will be expected to complete background reading and independent study in order to meet the level required to complete the course successfully. Specialist speakers may provide additional input.
Indicative Content
- Exploring personal experiences of group and community
- Social theories (e.g. social order, conflict, action, critical, feminist, figurational)
- Theories and approaches for community building
- Understanding diversity in outdoor education communities
- Principles and practice for equity, equality, and need in outdoor education
- The contribution of outdoor education to local community
- Social trends and implications for community building practice in outdoor education
- Educational and moral considerations for community building in outdoor education
Assessment
Assessment will be by a written assignment of c4000 words.
Assessment Performance Criteria
- Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between group development and community building in the current social context.
- Apply group development and community building theories to personal experience of outdoor education.
- Evaluate an outdoor education programme in relation to social justice principles.
- Critically analyse outdoor education claims and discourses in relation to social capital and/or social ecology theories.
Credit Rating
20 SM (Scottish Masters) Level Credits
