A study on how ecologically considered design can support the understanding of the life process from childhood into adulthood.

“Let children walk with nature, let them see the beautiful blendings and communions of death and life, their joyous inseparable unity, as taught in woods and meadows, plains and mountains and streams of our blessed star” - John Muir (2015)

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there is a connection between childhood experiences of play in nature and the understanding of loss in adulthood. Six adults between the ages of 26 and 55yrs+ participated in a focus group, where the output was an audio recording of a discussion, including some supporting visual reflections on childhood play experiences. Analysis showed that anxiety and other associated emotions of grief and loss, such as anger and frustration were alleviated by accessing natural spaces. This data provides some empirical support for the advocacy of planning urban environments that are ecologically considered and incorporate natural cycles for the emotional and socio-economic benefit to human life.  

Introduction

This research explores broad topics within urban design (UD) and landscape architecture |(LA), ecology and play, more specifically; the acceptance of death and how ecological design and play can influence the human understanding of loss in adulthood, including affiliated emotional responses relating to grief, such as anxiety and fear. The research will firstly present a review of relevant literature that provides a critical analysis on three main topics identified by the researcher as continuous themes within literature and life experience as a mother and creative play practitioner:

·      Acceptance of Death – In relation to living within natural cycles

·      Compost Design – Circular material choice for construction in UD and LA

·      Nature play – Experiencing the elements of the natural environment through play

Secondly, the research will present an academic exploration of primary research in the form of a focus group which aims to provide personal insights into how childhood play experiences influence the understanding of natural cycles, seeking to explore suggestions on how the design of the urban environment can facilitate more holistic understandings of natural cycles through materiality decisions within a landscape architecture context. In addition to this, ethical considerations will be implemented to ensure this research is conducted sensitively. Finally, a reflective conclusion will be made regarding the final outcomes of the study, highlighting further scope for research.

(Research and findings not included on this blog post, for the full paper please email me)