Invitation to participate in nature connectedness and meaning in life research

We have received [4 May 2020] the following email communication from Michael Wilson at University of Derby.

Invitation

I am in my final year of doing an MSc in Psychology at the University of Derby, and as part of my degree I am conducting a study into “Nature Connectedness and Meaning in Life in the Northumberland National Park”. While the benefits of being in nature are well known, not a lot of research has been conducted into how being in nature may be linked to ideas about meaning in life. Also, it is possible that different nature settings (e.g., urban parks, allotments, forest school) have a different impact on people using these spaces. Therefore, I am writing to invite you to participate in this research. The project is supervised by Dr Ryan Lumber (ryan.lumber@derby.ac.uk; 01332 597756).

If you want to take part

To take part you should be 18 years of age or older, and be able to access the Northumberland National Park as your “one form of exercise a day” (www.gov.uk/coronavirus), and in keeping with Government current restrictions that “no-one should be visiting Northumberland National Park” unless it’s within local walking distance; though “car parks will remain open purely for use by local residents” (www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk). Also, you should not have any mobility difficulty, and/or specific health problems, and/or be seriously unfit.

What you’ll need to do

When in the park you would be expected to write a brief description (one side of A4) of your experience while in the nature setting. Guidelines would be provided to help you complete this writing task. Your involvement would be greatly welcome.

An incentive

A £20 Amazon voucher would be offered as a gesture of appreciation for your participation in the study.

Confidentiality

Also, your participation would be confidential, and would consist of a 40 to 60-minute leisurely walking during which time you would write the description. In addition, your anonymity would be protected in a write-up of the study.

I want to participate, what do I do now?

If you would like to take part, the link to access the study is here: https://derby.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3Epk4LmP0DDtDBH

Thank you for taking time to read this.

With best wishes,

Michael Wilson | BA(Hons) MTh MSc PG Dip. PGCE PG Dip. Psychology