Making Outdoor Education Inclusive
The most significant challenge in outdoor education is removing the barriers that prevent those who are not participating.
We recognise that factors such as a lack of understanding, limited accessibility, and program design exclude people with impairments, which may cause them to feel they cannot be a part of outdoor programs. Our mission is to change that perception by actively working towards a more inclusive outdoor experience.
While we may not have all the solutions or the most accessible activities and events just yet, we're committed to making a difference. Our focus is on breaking down the obstacles that prevent people from engaging in outdoor programs. By addressing issues of understanding, improving accessibility, and reimagining program designs, we aim to create an environment where everyone feels not only welcome but fully empowered to participate in the joy of.
Understanding
The first principle is about understanding the unique abilities and needs of people who live with impairments. Everybody has different physical and mental abilities. We are more interested in what people can do and what they want to do than what they can't do. By better understanding what people's abilities are, we can find solutions that fit each individual. It's also important that we understand what each individual's needs are in order to be able to keep them safe. When an individual's abilities and needs are understood, we can work with family, organisations and other networks of support in order to put together safe opportunities for individuals to participate.
Accessibility
Principle two is accessibility. This means doing the best we can to reduce the barriers to participation with facilities and equipment. This can be the biggest challenge in providing opportunities for people with impairments. We are working with equipment providers and the facilities that we use in order to increase opportunities for people with impairments.
Participation
Principle three is participation. The best outcome here is that people with impairments are participating alongside people without impairments and enjoying the same experience at the same time. This can be an enriching experience for both the person with an impairment and the rest of the group. This is also where some of the greatest challenges arise. Flexible program design and adaptability are needed in order to support participation.
