“The Impactful Role of Trekking in Human Development Across History and Today: Exploring the Cognitive, Behavioral, and Emotional Benefits of Hiking in Natural and Urban Environments. Additionally, Investigating How Trekking Education Integrates Effective Learning with Environmental Conservation Amidst Climate Change Challenges.”
The latest iteration of the “Outdoor Learning and Adventure Education” course convened in Tenerife from 25/02/2023 to 3/03/2023.

The participants came from all across Europe, with Tiina and Terje from Talinn Cathedral School in Estonia, Halka and Eliška from Aperio – Společnost pro zdravé rodičovství in Czech Republic, Esther from Erich Kästner Gymnasium Laatzen in Germany, Sanna-Mari from Länsirannikon koulutus Oy Winnova in Finland, Tanjia from Srednja gozdarska, lesarska in zdravstvena šola Postojna in Slovenia, Anna and Roisìn from  Scoil Fhursa in Ireland, Laura and Minna from Kuopion Lyseon lukio in Finland, Katrine from Turku Teacher Training School in Finland, Samuel and Tamara from YMCA University of Applied Sciences , and Sari from Saarijärven lukio, Saarijärven yhtenöiskoulu in Finland.

​​Commencing with defining Trekking Education and Outdoor Education, we delved into various strategies to guide our students towards embracing trekking adventures, acknowledging that ‘outdoor’ experiences extend beyond natural settings. Indeed, a portion of our training was dedicated to Urban Trekking Education, navigating through cityscapes. In this module, participants honed skills to teach subjects like science, mathematics, music, art, language, etc., via interactive activities that heightened awareness of urban environments.

Another segment of the course involved hands-on practice in natural settings within local parks. The games and activities tested were well-received, inspiring participants not only to share their experiences with the group but also to create their own outdoor activities.

On the third day, we embarked on a 9.4km trek in the breathtaking La Caldera area, a mere 40 minutes away from Puerto de la Cruz. Participants also delved into the concept of Non-Formal Education (NFE), emphasizing concrete experiences at the core of the learning process. 
​
Wednesday included a visit to El Teide mountain and national park, where we trekked around Roques de Garcia, marveling at one of Tenerife’s wonders. 
Thursday saw us tackle the longest trek of the week, hiking from Mirador Cruz del Carmen to Punta del Hidalgo, spanning 12.9km.
​​

The final segment focused on designing custom trekking experiences tailored to participants’ students’ age groups, considering their educational needs and desired skills. Friday was dedicated to a beach day, where we walked through picturesque banana plantations to playa El Bollullo. Participants presented their plans on the stunning black-sand beach, receiving valuable feedback for further improvement.

​This week epitomized experiential learning through trekking, allowing participants to engage practically in outdoor education and equip themselves with the tools to design trekking activities for their students. Throughout the course, participants explored a plethora of activities and games, demonstrating that learning extends beyond the classroom walls!
Discover more about this course here.​