Presence and (dis)connectedness – the influence of smartphones usage on human–nature and human–human interactions in outdoor studies

• DOI: 10.3389/feduc.2024.1369591
• Publication Date: 2024-05-02T04:58:05Z
• Authors: Imre van Kraalingen; Simon Beames
• Keywords: Social Connectedness; Human studies

Interactions between students and nature their peers are central to learning processes in outdoor studies programs. This paper draws on symbolic interactionist social theory interpret participants’ experiences of smartphone usage its impact human–nature human–human interactions. The findings derived from a collective case study using semi-structured interviews with educators focus group enrolled programs Norway. Two primary themes were identified through reflexive thematic analysis: perceptions attentiveness peers. Each these illustrates the fluctuating presence (dis) connectedness implications this for out-of-doors. On one hand, suggest that use smartphones reduces students’ sensory perception interactions other access online networks can contribute continuity indoor learning, as well beyond formal environment. Taken together, inquiry offers new insights into challenges tertiary level teaching outdoors spaces mediated (at times) by associated media infrastructures.