This article examines the activities, achievements, challenges, and future plans of the Nature-Based Learning Research (NBLR) Network designed to advance knowledge of the natural environment's impact on children's learning and educational outcomes. The NBLR Network emerged from the recognition that research can fall short in making a positive impact on society. Research-related traditions, as well as the perceptions of researchers about their appropriate role, can contribute to the limited role of research in society.
“What if researchers saw their work as part of a social movement to make change—a movement to which researchers might contribute knowledge, skills, and evidence? What if the research enterprise was designed to encourage that view and to facilitate relevance, rigor, activation of research, and a collaborative approach to addressing research questions aligned with a common goal?” To address these questions and related concerns, the founders of the NBLR Network applied network leadership strategies to the development, implementation, and evaluation of their research network initiative. These leadership strategies are based on an organizational structure and approach utilized by three network leadership models supporting interdisciplinary and cross-sector work. One model was used to guide the network building process; one to frame the vision for working together; and one to provide practical steps for intentionally linking people together.
Leaders of the NBLR Network found these leadership strategies effective in building connections, aligning interests, exchanging knowledge and resources, and producing collaborative action. Future plans for the NBLR Network include supporting other social impact networks through the work of the Children & Nature Network (C&NN), which is adopting an “action network” strategy to enhance its ability to support the growing children and nature movement.
Initial outcomes of the NBLR Network indicate that the application of network-building leadership strategies has the potential to accelerate research in areas of need and lead to a better understanding of the benefits and limitations of generative network-building approaches for accomplishing positive social change. To assist other researchers interested in using an intentional approach to enhancing the social impact of their research, specific recommendations are offered.
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