Peer-reviewed researchEONZ research brief
Learning that lingers
Young women who did a compulsory 28-day school outdoor programme still recognised enduring learning years later, and some recalled significant difficulty.
What's new
This Aotearoa study surveyed 148 young women who had completed a compulsory 28-day school outdoor programme at ages 14 to 15. Participants reported enduring learning involving relationships, independence, perseverance, conflict resolution and sustainable practices. Some also recalled significant discomfort, social challenges, and difficulties managing without devices or while experiencing mental-health struggles.
Why it matters in Aotearoa
This is local evidence of learning that participants still recognise years later, which supports outdoor education as more than short-term recreation. It also cautions against assuming that challenge benefits every learner.
Putting it into practice
When designing a long programme, plan support for learners who find the challenge, the social demands or being without devices hard.
How strong is the evidence
Peer-reviewed survey of 148 young women from one type of programme in Aotearoa, based on recalled experience.
What to read
The full article, especially the discussion of mental health, compulsory participation and programme design