How do children experience Nature school? A case study of a Nature school program in Youth Center Villa Elba

Henrik Andersson

Andersson Henrik

2026

This study explored children’s interests and nature experiences at Villa Elba Nature School through photography and group interviews. Three themes emerged: interest in nature, familiarity with surroundings, and appreciation of nature.

This qualitative case study explored children’s interests at Villa Elba Nature School and how they relate to the program’s learning objectives. Commissioned by the Finnish Youth Centers Association, the study used participant observation, child led photography, and group interviews to collect data. The findings revealed three themes: interest in nature, familiarity with surroundings, and appreciation of nature. The results highlighted positive nature experiences that may foster pro-environmental attitudes and behaviours. The study also demonstrated child led photography as an effective method for exploring children’s interests.

• Other

• English
• Finnish