A recent dialogue in the field of play, learn, and teach outdoors demonstrated the need for developing consensus-based terminology, taxonomy, and ontology. Our colleagues Dr. Christoph Mall and Jan Ellinger contributed to the harmonization of existing terms as part of an expert panel.
The “Terminology, Taxonomy and Ontology project” of the Play, Learn and Teach Outdoors Network (PLaTO-Net) comprised of four major methodological phases. First, a systematic scoping review was conducted to identify common terms and definitions used pertaining to PLaTO. Second, based on the results of the scoping review, a draft set of key terms, taxonomy, and ontology were developed, and shared with PLaTO members, who provided feedback via four rounds of consultation. Third, PLaTO terminology, taxonomy, and ontology were then finalized based on the feedback received from 51 PLaTO member participants who responded to the consultation survey and dialogue. Finally, efforts to share and disseminate project outcomes were made through different online platforms. This paper presents the final definitions and taxonomy of 31 PLaTO terms along with the PLaTO-Net ontology model. The model incorporates other relevant concepts in recognition that all the aspects of the model are interrelated and interconnected. The final terminology, taxonomy, and ontology are intended to be applicable to, and relevant for, all people encompassing various identities (e.g., age, gender, culture, ethnicity, ability).
We are very pleased to be part of this important step in this rapidly evolving field of research.
Lee, E.Y., de Lannoy, L., Li, Lucy, de Barros, M., Bentsen, P., Brussoni, M., Fiskum. T., … Tremblay, M. and participating PLaTO-Net members (2022). Play, Learn, and Teach Outdoors – Network (PLaTO-Net): terminology, taxonomy, and ontology. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 9(66). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-022-01294-0