Ecological Identity, Empathy, and Experiential Learning: A Young Child's Explorations of a Nearby River. (26th April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Humphreys, Chloe; Blenkinsop, Sean
• Editors: Piersol, Laura; Blenkinsop, Sean; Cutter-Mackenzie-Knowles, Amy
• Is Part Of: Australian journal of environmental education. Volume 34:Number 2(2018)
• Page Start: 143
• Page End: 158
• Publication Date: 2018-04-26
• Subjects: young children, -- environmental identity, -- empathy, -- affordances, -- nature parenting; Environmental education -- Periodicals; Environmental education -- Australia -- Periodicals; Conservation of natural resources -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Conservation of natural resources -- Study and teaching -- Australia -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; 333.7071
• DOI: 10.1017/aee.2018.20
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1380-2038

Abstract

Abstract: This article uses an unconventional format to explore the role of parent and nature and the development of a young child's ecological identity. It follows journal entries from a mother observing her young son, Julian, as he explores, interacts with, and learns from the Stawamus River on the west coast of British Columbia. By creating questions, discussing and analysing these written observations, we explore the role of parenting and nature and the implications this might have for environmental education. Some of the ideas explored in this article include early ecological identity, empathy, relational existence, experiential learning, and affordances in the natural world. We further suggest that nature and parent working together might become key educators for a child.