Research Development and Trends of Outdoor Education in Taiwan Higher Education: A Scoping Review Approach

Abstract Book of the 11th International Conference on Research in Education

Year: 2026

[PDF]

Research Development and Trends of Outdoor Education in Taiwan Higher Education: A Scoping Review Approach

Fang-Wei Lin, Lin Li-Ting

ABSTRACT:

This study aims to explore the development and research trends of outdoor education courses in Taiwan’s higher education through a scoping review approach. With the increasing emphasis on experiential learning, sustainability, and competency-based education, outdoor education has gained growing attention in Taiwanese universities. However, a comprehensive synthesis of its research development remains limited. Therefore, this study systematically maps the existing literature to identify key themes, research methodologies, and knowledge gaps.This study adopts the scoping review framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley and follows the PRISMA-ScR guidelines to ensure methodological rigor. Relevant studies were collected from major academic databases based on predefined inclusion criteria, resulting in a total of 45 selected articles. The analysis focuses on publication trends, research contexts, theoretical frameworks, and methodological approaches.The results indicate that research on outdoor education in Taiwan has steadily increased over the past decade. Major themes include experiential learning, environmental education, adventure education, and risk management. Qualitative and mixed-method approaches are predominantly used, while longitudinal and theory-driven studies remain relatively limited.This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape and suggests future directions, including interdisciplinary integration, curriculum innovation, and evidence-based teaching practices.

Keywords: Outdoor Education Policy; Adventure Education; Physical Education in Higher Education