Effective Learning in Adventure-Based Education: Setting Directions for Future Research

Abstract

There is research evidence that adventure-based programs are effective vehicles for education. Research has failed to clarify, however, how adventure-based programs create an environment for effective growth and change. By extrapolating results from studies on effective traditional classroom education, educators may begin to address this issue. Through a literature review, this article identifies and explores five characteristics known to exist in both the adventure-based learning environment and the effective traditional classroom setting. They are: (1) small learning group size; (2) cooperative learning environment; (3) communication of high expectations for students; (4) building on student success; and (5) creating an identifiable classroom culture reflecting positive, supportive values.