People and nature: learning through doing

Action research

People and nature: learning through doing was an action research programme which aimed to identify successful approaches to involving people from excluded and disadvantaged groups in enjoying, learning about and caring for nature.

Read a summary of learning outcomes, plus a case study on each action research project, published by Scottish Natural Heritage.

Six community and voluntary sector groups undertook action research projects to explore what could help people from a range of backgrounds and circumstances to get closer to nature - and the benefits they experienced when they did. The research spanned a range of different groups - from people with disabilities to people on low incomes, and local communities in general.

Common themes emerged on the value people placed on the connections they made through getting involved with nature, both to other people and to their local place. All projects demonstrated the transformative role that enjoying, learning about and caring for nature can play in improving well-being and building stronger communities.

Full reports

Each group published a full report on their action research, including recommendations for other organisations.

• Blarbuie Woodland Enterprise - action research report 
• Broughty Ferry Environmental Project - action research report 
• Clackmannanshire Disability Awareness Group - action research report 
• GalGael Trust - action research report 
• Neilston Development Trust - action research report 
• SAMH Chrysalis Project - focus group report 

DVDs were also produced by Broughty Ferry Environmental Project, Clackmannanshire Disability Awareness Group and GalGael Trust. A website   was produced by Neilston Development Trust.

What is action research?

Action research is often defined as research done of and by a particular group of people, rather than on and to them - with the aim of increasing understanding and achieving change. Find out more and download a practical guide to community-led action research   on the Scottish Community Development Centre website.

People and nature: learning through doing was supported by Scottish Natural Heritage and Scottish Community Development Centre and ran from Autumn 2009 until Spring 2011.

For more information contact elaine.macintosh@snh.gov.uk 0141 951 0824.