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Adventure-based learning
The notion of adventure-based learning is both broad and specific. Deep learning can occur when a learner is engaged in multiple adventures that as a composite develop the range of skills and competencies required for navigating 21st-century life.
Adventure-based learning also connects to concepts inherent with nature-based learning – especially for younger learners. The ability to be able to develop their skills of good judgement, leadership, interpersonal communication will all be enhanced through adventure.
Similarly, for adolescents, the notion of adventure-based learning might be different – but nevertheless just as stimulating. Learners thrive when immersed in activities where their passion drives their deep learning. This could be evidenced in a physical adventure (outdoor learning challenges), cultural adventures (experiencing other cultures for deeper awareness and empathy), socio-economic adventures (developing empathy for different contexts and challenges) – any packaging of a learning journey within the framework of adventure.
It is important to co-create the contexts where adventure-based learning can be reflected upon, analysed and used as the motivation for further activity (e.g. social entrepreneurship).
Examples:
Learning Together through Fun and Adventure
Teaching Sustainability through Adventure
Growing Up Wild: Filming my year learning through adventure!
https://www.bradwoods.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/AE-Guide.pdf
Web resources:
In Defense of Adventure-Based Education and Active Learning Opportunities
Application:
The notion of adventure-based learning opens up unlimited possibilities to develop skills or grow character in a multitude of ways. Learning design that introduces physical adventures and/or journeys, whether they be focused around growing cross-cultural understanding or perhaps a personal, mental and physical challenge, provides opportunities for deep and enduring learning. Adventure-based learning can engage learners in ways not possible within more static environments.
Where an adventure-based learning approach is chosen as part of the learning design, the involvement of the learners in the design, development and directions of the adventure is very important.
Adventure-based learning is one of the 25 learning methodologies in the Learnlife learning paradigm toolkit. Learn more about the different ways to engage learners through the different learning methodologies.