TST5

10 | www.teachwire.net/school-trips “Outdoor adventure provides the bedrock for real-life learning that is both memorable and meaningful” Learning in the natural world today helps children adapt to the challenges of tomorrow… OUTDOOR ADVENTURE I n a world that currently resembles a moving target, an enormous amount of unmitigated information is at young people’s fingertips. Consequently, the measure of their knowledge is not the amount of this information that can be retained (cognitive skills) but rather their ability to curate (filter and process) material coupled with an understanding of how, when, and why it should or should not be used. For example, secondary school learners should become competent not only in replicating facts but also in self-regulating their behaviours to properly understand knowledge and use it within and beyond their assessment. Within an emerging creative economy, a core of highly prized skills, collectively known as ‘21st Century Skills’, is recognised by international agencies, academics, and non-governmental and private sector organisations as essential for generating solutions to some of society’s most critical problems in a global marketplace. These skills include young people’s ability to be self-aware, empathise with others, question how the world works and how it could be, become strong-willed, and overcome and learn from failure. We know that youngsters who score high on psychosocial skills at an early age, as opposed to pure academic skills training, report better adult outcomes in education, employment, and mental health (1). Experiential learning Nurturing an optimum blend of physical, social, cognitive, and emotional literacy is most important in childhood. This is where brain growth is most prolific, and a toolkit of skill sets can be fostered to help children adapt to the challenges of today and be oriented to help them face the demands of tomorrow. Learning through a range of means and experiences enables children to see the world at a granular, personalised level and with a global perspective. This experiential approach helps them not only to distil information but also to integrate it with other experiences and use it effectively. Connecting with nature The unpredictable and dynamic nature of outdoor adventure (OA) reflects our world of constant change. This makes it an ideal pedagogical tool for the development of skills needed for children to adapt to present difficulties and build capacity for their future. In essence, adventure represents our willingness to take risks and learn through uncertainty. Adventure education is about placing healthy demands on young Embracing