ABSTRACT
In 1980, Thomas Tanner argued that if a major goal of environmental education is the production of an active and informed citizenry, then environmental educators should know the kind of learning experiences that produce such persons. He interviewed 45 staff and officers of leading US conservation organisations about their backgrounds and formative influences which had led them to choosing conservation work. Childhood experience in the outdoors was the most reported factor in developing a personal concern for the environment. This study led to considerable further research both in the USA and in Europe which extended its scope away from leading conservationists to environmental educators and others. That some have significant experiences can be in no doubt, but not everyone having the same experience will find it significant.
