Peer-reviewed research2017–2026 update
‘What a bad idea to camp next to a train station’ – student-reported outcomes and evaluations of the outdoor adventure project ‘challenges’
In German student-led 'challenges' projects, voluntary participation and the team aspect were the most central factors in students feeling they benefited.
What's new
In 'challenges' projects, students at a growing number of German schools spend a longer period, usually two weeks, on a task they choose, most often long trips on foot or by bike with limited money. This cross-sectional study explored the reports of 763 students from 13 secondary schools about their learning, the benefits of taking part and the effects of different programme features. Voluntariness and the team aspect were the most central factors in whether students felt they benefited. The results suggest such projects may benefit from less school regulation.
Why it matters in Aotearoa
The study raises questions about how much student choice and autonomy New Zealand schools build into extended EOTC experiences. It also invites schools to think about balancing student ownership with their safety systems.
Putting it into practice
When designing extended trips or journeys, coordinators can look for ways to make participation voluntary and give student teams real decisions about the task, within the school's safety management system.
How strong is the evidence
This is a large cross-sectional study of student self-reports. It cannot show cause and effect, and it covers a specific German programme model.
What to read
The full article, especially the findings on programme features such as voluntariness and teamwork.