معرفی
Professor Helen Bilton is the University Professor of Outdoor Learning and Play and Director of the PGCert Healthcare Education Programme at the University of Reading's Institute of Education. She holds a National Teaching Fellowship (2012) and is a leading international expert on outdoor education, particularly in early childhood contexts. Her research focuses on outdoor play’s role in child development, including language acquisition, gender dynamics, and staff roles in educational settings.
Her career spans over 35 years, transitioning from primary teaching to academia. She has authored seven influential books, including Outdoor Learning in the Early Years (1998), now in its 3rd edition, and collaborates globally with institutions in Portugal and China. Bilton emphasizes the importance of outdoor environments as legitimate teaching spaces, advocating for structured playtime and staff training to enhance learning outcomes.
Key areas of research include optimizing breaktimes in schools, fostering empathy through outdoor play, and designing inclusive outdoor spaces. Her work bridges theory and practice, with practical guides for educators and policy recommendations. Bilton also explores how outdoor learning can address modern challenges like climate change education and sustainable development.
Her publications and keynote speeches highlight the holistic benefits of outdoor education, impacting both child development and institutional practices. Current projects focus on expanding her book series on child development and environmental interactions, reflecting her commitment to global educational equity and innovation.
