Reflections on place, Place-Based Education and Wild Pedagogies in Denmark: A Schooner Project

Based on philosophical reflections on the concepts of place, place-based education, wild pedagogies and outdoor schooling in Denmark, the article presents and reflects upon selected results from a three-year accompanying qualitative research conducted in connection with a project for underserved young people and students. Approximately 40 participants aged 14-29 with social, personal, relational and/or substance abuse problems were enrolled as crewmembers on a schooner in periods ranging from a few weeks to six to eight months during the project’s three-year duration. The results indicate that place, nature, an extended stay and the relationship competency of the crew are all factors that can have a positive and transformative impact on participants, supporting their efforts to get “on an even keel” - to use a maritime expression that alludes to keeping a vessel’s keel steady, assuring smooth sailing.