Rethinking Outdoor Education: Integrating Careers Into Experiential Learning, Helping Students Develop Purpose in Life
Natalie Chan
Traditional outdoor education provides invaluable nature-based experiences that nurture growth and exploration, but what if we expanded its definition to include careers as a transformative component? This session will introduce a fresh perspective, positioning career exploration as a vital extension of experiential learning. We will share innovative frameworks, standards, and assessment strategies that empower educators to bridge career education with outdoor learning. Participants will gain practical tools to deliver impactful programs that prepare students for the future, redefining the boundaries of outdoor education in the process.
About Natalie
Natalie Chan is an educator, engineer, film producer, and entrepreneur. With a Master’s Degree in Education specializing in Designing Powerful Learning Environments, she believes education is key to solving the world’s problems. In 2016 Chan founded OWN Academy, a real-world experience platform that empowers the next generation to be changemakers and problem solvers. By partnering with corporations and professionals, OWN helps students develop their purpose and unlock their potential through career exploration and experiences. Chan’s achievements include being selected to attend the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in 2019, and being awarded a Cartier’s Women Initiative fellowship in 2021
(https://www.cartierwomensinitiative.com/fellow/natalie-chan).
