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Home » A Conversation with Dr Gemma Goldenberg from the Institute for the Science of Early Years and Youth

A Conversation with Dr Gemma Goldenberg from the Institute for the Science of Early Years and Youth

Podcast
  • March 17, 2026

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In this conversation, Carol Murdoch speaks with Dr Gemma Goldenberg, an expert in education and child psychology, about the importance of outdoor learning and its impact on children’s development. They discuss Gemma’s transition from teaching to research, the challenges faced in urban and rural learning environments, and the significance of playtime as a right for children. Gemma shares insights from her research on how outdoor learning benefits neurodiverse children and the importance of creating diverse educational environments. They also touch on Gemma’s journey in pursuing a PhD and her current work at the Institute for the Science of Early Years and Youth.

Takeaways

  • Gemma Goldenberg emphasises the need for outdoor learning in education.
  • Children in urban environments can still benefit from outdoor learning.
  • Playtime is essential for children’s development and should not be taken away as punishment.
  • Outdoor learning can help reluctant writers and children who struggle in traditional settings.
  • The environment significantly impacts children’s behavior and learning.
  • Teachers should observe children in different environments to understand their needs better.
  • Diversity in research and education is crucial for effective learning.
  • Outdoor experiences can enhance children’s focus and attention.
  • Teachers can take any lesson outside to improve engagement.
  • Gemma’s journey highlights the challenges and rewards of pursuing a PhD.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gemma Goldenberg
00:56 Transitioning from Teaching to Research
05:10 The Importance of Outdoor Learning
07:09 Challenges of Urban vs. Rural Learning Environments
13:10 The Impact of Outdoor Learning on Children
19:01 Playtime: A Crucial Component of Learning
24:46 Real-Life Examples of Outdoor Learning Success
27:12 The Power of Outdoor Learning
30:26 Research-Backed Practices in Education
33:24 Neurodiversity in Teaching
37:18 The Journey of Academic Pursuits
42:39 Challenges in Academia
47:58 Bridging Research and Practice
51:09 Future Endeavours in Education

Thank you for listening. Here are the show links:

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  • Find Dr Gemma Goldenberg online: Instagram
  • Gemma’s book: Take Action on Distraction – The definitive guide to improving attention and focus in the Early Years and Key Stage
  • Institute for the Science of Early Years and Youth
  • Children spend less time outdoors than prisoners do
  • Outdoor space for teens – Time to Play – Bargarran Park
  • Dr Qing LI – The Forest Bathing Institute
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