By Jack Reed, Simon Kennedy Beames, and Gale Macleod.
Young people’s lives are increasingly influenced by technology, which raises important questions about how online spaces affect their connection to nature. This study looked at how platforms like Instagram and TikTok impact young people’s relationships with the natural world and their in-person experiences in nature. The research involved 50 young people aged 12–17 who were visiting outdoor education centres in England, Scotland, and Wales. Through participant observation methods, the research suggests that young people no longer see a clear divide between their online and offline worlds, and this impacts how they understand and engage with the natural environment. These findings can help educators and policymakers better connect young people with nature in a world where digital and real-life experiences are increasingly intertwined.
Relational Thinking 