Experiential Learning in natural environments thrives because of the positive aspects of undertaking challenges in a wide range of activities and opportunities in the outdoors.
One of the key foundations of outdoor learning is the intentional acceptance of both the benefits of undertaking adventurous activities and the potential risks of doing so.
These challenges are either physical and/or psychological and include real and/or perceived risk where real and often immediate consequences can lead to powerful and highly memorable learning experiences.
As a leader of outdoor learning experiences, I’m acutely aware that I inherit both a 'duty of care' and ‘responsibility’ for any situation that may pose a threat to someone’s physical and/or psychological safety.
Identifying and assessing hazards, managing safety needs and controlling risk in dynamic conditions (e.g. individuals, group, terrain, weather, equipment, animals, etc.) presents a very common and critical challenge for outdoor leaders. Add to this the consideration that outdoor leaders often work autonomously in unknown, complex, unpredictable, wild and/or remote outdoor environments away from immediate help and without the assurances of direct line management.
Knowing how to identify, support and empower physical and psychological safety is therefore imperative for any outdoor leader.
Below are learnings from my outdoor leadership experiences for how to best support those under my care in finding and feeling safety.
Psychological Safety
Physical Safety
I’d love to hear from you if you have anything to add or want to offer feedback on my observations.
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