Integrating literacy practices into outdoor adventure education: a case study of adventure Risk Challenge for high-school youth in the United States

In a case study of the Adventure Risk Challenge program, we examine a unique integration of literacy practices into outdoor education. Using frameworks in outdoor education, positive youth development and adolescent literacy, we describe an adventure programming model, analyze organizational internal data, and discuss positive outcomes. High-school participants, from primarily underserved communities, completed a month-long immersive education program that combined outdoor adventure with focused instruction in writing, reading and public speaking. We utilized data from pre-/post-academic tests, the Developmental Assets Profile survey, post-course questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. We analyzed qualitative responses to align with Search Institute categories for internal assets: commitment to learning, social competencies and positive identity. From 2005-2020, participants made academic gains and boosted internal assets. Our findings suggest integrating literacy components enriched adolescent identity development and built student confidence and skill in communication. We recommend further research into the benefits of including literacy curriculum in outdoor education.