Exploring the landscape of inclusive outdoor education in Australia and Canada: a rapid review

In Australia and Canada, outdoor education is defined as experiential outdoor learning in, about, and for the natural world. An inclusive learning environment is one where all students, regardless of diverse background, abilities or needs, have equal access to, and can fully participate in educational experiences. Outdoor education should offer equitable access to high-quality education experiences regardless of a participant’s requirements. Despite a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion, inclusive practices outdoor education remains limited. Our paper provides a rapid review of the literature on inclusion and outdoor education in Australia and Canada long with the benefits, challenges leading to lack of implementation, and strategies for creating more accessible and equitable programs. We highlight the potential of outdoor education to support social, emotional and community development, enhance well-being, and provide multi-modal learning opportunities. In doing so, we aim to provide a foundation for future studies and practical applications for education.