What's new

This qualitative descriptive study took place in Western Australia. Researchers held five focus groups with adolescents and four key informant interviews with outdoor adventure education (OAE) teachers, recruited through purposive sampling, and analysed the data with template thematic analysis. Building and keeping connections with others during OAE stood out as a powerful protective factor for psychosocial outcomes. The tangible responsibilities and inherent challenges of OAE also created opportunities for many kinds of success. The authors conclude that deliberate programming decisions that build in connection, responsibility, challenge and individual empowerment may have a positive effect on psychosocial outcomes.

Why it matters in Aotearoa

Schools in Aotearoa are paying close attention to student wellbeing. This study suggests that how outdoor adventure programmes are designed, beyond simply running them, shapes their contribution to wellbeing.

Putting it into practice

Review your camp or adventure programme to check that every student has a real responsibility to carry and regular chances to build connections with peers.

How strong is the evidence

This is a small qualitative study in a single Australian region. It describes perceived outcomes and does not measure them, and the authors call for further research.

What to read

The findings on connection and on tangible responsibilities and challenges.

Who it's for