Alternative and Innovative Learning and Teaching Environments

In a world increasingly dominated by screens and sedentary lifestyles, researchers from Western Sydney University are urging the adoption of Alternative and Innovative Learning and Teaching Environments (AILTE). At an international level, leading organisations such as the UN, OECD, and UNICEF have emphasised the need for more childhood play in society (Yogman et al, 2018). We focus on play—especially outdoor risky play—as a potent learning vehicle for children to develop the skills necessary to succeed and flourish throughout their lives (Canadian Paediatric Society, 2024). Nature play in outdoor educational settings offers a way of addressing the pressing challenges faced by children today. Our research underscores the physical, socio-emotional, and academic benefits of outdoor learning and risk-taking, offering a compelling case for its integration into schools across Australia.

The rapid rise of Gen Overwhelmed (Gen Z) is shaping education, creating both opportunities and challenges that demand urgent research and policy responses (Gray, et al. 2025). A growing chorus of experts believe a key driver of the adolescent mental health crisis is the decline over decades, in opportunities for children to engage in ‘risky play’ (Dodd & Lester, 2021). This includes adventurous activities that pose both physical and emotional challenges for kids, such as climbing, jumping and balancing at height, or exploring play spaces freely with limited or no adult supervision.

The AILTE program is deeply responsive to nature-based learning and reminds educators what is possible when we embrace challenge, adventure, and place-attuned practices to build a child’s resilience, a sense of belonging self-confidence and engagement. Team members have expertise in conducting research that generates new knowledge and scholarly contributions to address these challenges.

Professor Tonia Gray (Program Leader)

Professor Susan Hespos (Co-Leader)

Dr Marion Sturges

Jaydene Barnes

Associate Professor Arianne Reis

Alexandra Harper (PhD Candidate WSU)

Fiona Pigott (PhD Candidate WSU)