Learning experiences that take place outside the traditional classroom setting, such as school camps and excursions, offer a unique opportunity for students to engage with concepts in a more interactive and immersive way. By participating in offsite activities, students can develop practical skills, support teamwork, and transform abstract ideas into tangible experiences. This approach to learning has been shown to have a significant impact on knowledge retention, with studies indicating that students retain up to 75 percent of material learned through hands-on experiences, compared to just five percent through lectures and 30 percent through demonstrations.
Engaging Multiple Senses
When students are able to engage multiple senses simultaneously, they are better able to cater to different learning styles, including auditory, visual, and kinaesthetic approaches. The connection of senses, such as smell, sight, taste, touch, and sound, enables students to form sensory memories and establish stronger neural links to the subject matter. Furthermore, hands-on activities encourage students to move beyond passive listening, promoting a more engaging and interactive learning experience. By participating in activities that require active participation, students are more likely to remain focused and motivated, rather than disengaging when presented with traditional classroom instruction.
Specific types of hands-on activities, such as those offered on school trips, provide additional benefits, including the opportunity for safe risk-taking and the development of self-confidence and self-esteem. For example, activities like rock climbing or handling a high ropes course allow students to push their limits and build resilience in a controlled environment. Additionally, students may encounter obstacles or challenges that they would face in real-world situations, providing them with the opportunity to develop problem-solving skills and learn to handle difficulties in a safe and supportive setting.
Expert staff at camps and excursions often possess specialized knowledge and expertise that can enhance the learning experience for students. By guiding students in activities such as canoeing, demonstrating the wingspan of an Albatross, or explaining the intricacies of historical artifacts, these experts can provide students with a deeper understanding of the subject matter and inspire them to ask questions and explore topics in greater depth. This is particularly beneficial for senior students, who may be considering career paths and can gain valuable insights into various professions by witnessing them firsthand.
Experiential learning is a core component of the conservation learning ethos at Auckland Zoo, a world-renowned education provider for students of all ages. The zoo’s team of expert facilitators is passionate about sharing their knowledge and experience to inspire future conservation scientists in Aotearoa New Zealand. Interactive sessions are supported by pre- and post-visit learning resources and are designed to complement the New Zealand Curriculum, Te Marautanga o Aotearoa, and Te Whāriki. Learning outcomes are tailored to meet the needs of students from Years 0 to 13, covering topics such as sustainability, classification, adaptations, and Te Ao Māori themes like whakapapa and Matariki.
Professional Development and Teacher Support
Education providers like Auckland Museum offer professional development opportunities for teachers, designed to enhance their practice and provide them with the tools and resources needed to create effective learning environments. By supporting intergenerational learning, educators can better cater to the needs of their students and promote a more engaging and interactive learning experience. For example, Auckland Museum’s AM Learn program provides curriculum-linked learning experiences for students of all ages, with over 20 programs available to suit different age groups and learning objectives.
Orana Wildlife Park also offers curriculum-linked sessions designed for students from Years 1 to 13, providing an authentic and inclusive learning experience that allows students to observe and learn about a wide range of species. The park’s experienced team tailors programs to meet the needs of each group, incorporating key conservation messages and promoting discussion and learning. By participating in these programs, students can develop a deeper understanding of the natural world and their place within it, becoming more confident and caring kaitiaki of the environment.
Adventure and Residential Camps
For many students, a school camp is their first experience spending time away from home, providing an opportunity for them to develop independence and try new things outside of their comfort zone. Adventure activities, such as those offered by Hillary Outdoors, provide an excellent way to keep students active, promoting physical health and mental wellbeing. By participating in residential programs that immerse students in the outdoors, students can develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and a sense of capability, returning to school with renewed enthusiasm, self-belief, and a readiness to engage in academic life.
