Finnish Student Teachers’ Conceptions and Experiences of Nature

Based on the premise that outdoor-oriented learning relies on students’ perceptions of nature, this study contributes to the development of outdoor-based education in the Arctic and northern context. The study analyses conceptions and lifetime experiences of nature as reported by students (N = 46) in Sustainability and Outdoor Education-Oriented Teacher Education in Finland. A web-based questionnaire was used to gather data for content analysis. The results revealed variations in the students’ perceptions, although all were very aware of their connection to nature in the Arctic. The findings confirm the need for teachers to be aware that students’ perceptions and lived experiences of nature affect their ability to work with nature-related issues. As those perceptions vary according to background, personal connections and existing knowledge, student-centred education for teachers should take account of these factors.