Education and life-long learning

Outdoor adventure activities have long been used by education authorities, schools and colleges to enhance educational experiences for young people. The review verified the benefits that have been anecdotally promoted by instructors, teachers and leaders of outdoor sports. There was significant evidence on the impact that outdoor sports can have on the development of interpersonal and intrapersonal skills in young people.

The review highlighted that outdoor sports can help improve communication skills, cooperation, social interaction, relationships, responsibility, empathy, engagement, social trust and better overall group cohesion. As outdoor sports provide an intense contact with one’s self in nature there was also evidence of improved motor skills, emotional intelligence, personal responsibility, mindfulness as well as enhanced spiritual, sensory and aesthetic awareness.

Studies also highlighted improvements in educational performance and motivation. Being active in nature has positive effects on attention, cognition, brain structure, function, connectivity, intellectual flexibility and problem-solving skills. This applied not just for young people but could be important for helping to prevent cognitive decline in older people.

Improved understanding, our relationship and dependency on the environment were also highlighted by the studies. Environmental awareness, attitudes, behavior, connectedness to nature, sensitivity, empathy and stewardship were all showcased.

While no negative environmental effects were forthcoming in the BOSS review, there is the potential for increased numbers of people to cause erosion, inadvertent damage or disturbance to wildlife. Visitor information, ethics and education are needed to avoid potential social and ecological conflicts between different outdoor sports activities and land / water management bodies.