Linda Ritson - Adventure Education

Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.

(Attributed to Albert Einstein)

We all know that were different from everyone else were individuals and not like everyone around us so it follows that we will all learn in different ways. Yet when we start school there is the one single method of teaching, which doesnt suit everyone; we simply arent biologically wired to sit at a desk and listen to a teacher, absorbing and understanding what is being talked at us. A mechanic doesnt learn how to fix cars by listening or reading a book, nor does a hairdresser, a computer programmer, a doctor or a solicitor; there comes a point where the theory has been covered and the learner has to go out and learn by doing, practically putting into use that which they have read and heard. The same goes for school learning. There is a definite place for classroom learning, but subjects and concepts are more meaningful if the learner can get hands on, putting them into practice for themselves, perhaps making mistakes and working things through for themselves.

This book is aimed primarily at educators, with the ambition to encourage them to externalise the classroom and develop lessons that are beyond the chalk and talk of tradition. In National Curriculum terms, I see this book as being of principal interest to educators at Key Stages 1 and 2, primarily because there is greater use of external providers at Key Stage 3 and above. However, Part II (the toolkit) is of potential interest to anyone looking for inspiration to add that extra element to their programme that will enthuse and invigorate their learning audience.

Card games are excellent for helping with number skills and memory, or are simply a way to encourage a group to communicate and work together when they cant be outside. A deck of cards has easily as much developmental potential for group work as outdoor and higher risk, more adventurous activities; physical ability is irrelevant when playing card games, so groups with a wide range of abilities can work together. Card games refine mental skills like logic, observation and memory, as well as encouraging players to communicate, strategise and make decisions.

If the group has visual issues (or just because you can!), you can get decks of large playing cards, which can make it easier for the group.

Card games represent psychological adventure, a different way of working with numbers and visual acuity, still involving decision-making and strategising.