The Transdisciplinary Case for Ecohealth Promotion in Outdoor Learning

Abstract

Outdoor learning often reflects a wide variety of approaches that include but are not limited to, skill acquisition, outdoor education, adventure education, environmental education, experiential education, integrated learning, recreation, personal growth, and therapy. Thus, the case for transdisciplinarity in outdoor learning reflects a diverse integration and amalgamation of knowledge, methodologies, and disciplines - including health and ecohealth. Germaine to our paper, ecohealth is a transdisciplinary term that draws on system theory and the principle of reciprocity to reflect the holistic health of people, animals, plants, and the entire ecosystem where they live. The purpose of our paper is threefold: (1) systematically define key terminology and concepts from the literature related to holistic health, well-being, and wellness; (2) present the case for ecohealth promotion as a relevant and synergistic approach that is compatible with outdoor learning; and (3) share some practical implications for ecohealth promotion in outdoor learning contexts.