Erik Backman

Erik Backman is a Lecturer in Sports and Health Sciences at Dalarna University, Sweden. His academic work focuses on educational sociological perspectives on friluftsliv (outdoor recreation), the school subject physical education and health, and physical education teacher training. He is actively engaged in researching the sociological dimensions of outdoor recreation within educational contexts.

Backman's research interests center around outdoor recreation, physical education pedagogy, and the sociology of education. His work examines how friluftsliv (Swedish outdoor culture) is integrated into physical education, exploring the values, discourses, and social dynamics that shape teaching practices and student experiences. He applies sociological theories, particularly Bourdieu's framework, to analyze how outdoor education contributes to equity, democracy, and integration within the Swedish school system.

His publication record shows consistent scholarly output primarily focused on friluftsliv and physical education from 2004-2016, with particular concentration between 2007-2011. The research demonstrates a clear trajectory from examining practical implementation of outdoor education to analyzing deeper sociological dimensions of friluftsliv in teacher education and school curricula. His work bridges educational theory, sociology, and practical outdoor recreation pedagogy.

Backman is involved in an ongoing research project titled 'Encounters with nature, outdoor recreation and physical exercise. An investigation of tastes and habits regarding practice of outdoor recreation and physical exercise,' which continues his exploration of how cultural preferences and social factors shape engagement with outdoor activities.