People and nature: learning through doing

‘Action research’ is often defined as research done of and by a particular group of people, rather than on and to them. Its aim is to increase understanding and achieve change.

The People and nature: learning through doing action research programme involved six community and voluntary sector groups. Each ran an action research project to explore what could help people from a range of backgrounds and situations to get closer to nature – and the benefits enjoyed when they did. The projects spanned a range of groups, from people with disabilities to people on low incomes, and local communities in general.

A common theme that emerged was the value that people placed on the connections they made – both to other people and to their local place – by getting involved with nature. All projects showed that enjoying, learning about and caring for nature can have a transformative role in improving well-being and building stronger communities.

NatureScot and the Scottish Community Development Centre supported People and nature: learning through doing. The programme ran from autumn 2009 to spring 2011.

Summary and case studies

NatureScot published a summary of the overall learning outcomes from the programme, plus a case study on each action research project.

Download People and nature: learning through doing – Summary and learning outcomes

Action research full reports

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

Download people and nature: learning through doing - Case studies 

Three of the groups also produced DVDs and one created a website. See Neilston Development Trust’s Cowden Hall Estate website.