Self-discovery and life skill building through holistic learning in high school students

ABSTRACT

The aim of this case study was to examine how the life skills of high school students are affected by holistic learning via an experiential learning model. Extracurricular programs can help students gain communicate and cooperate with others, and cope with chaotic situations through holistic learning in school curricula. The students received in-school theoretical and practical education and outdoor basic mountaineering training. Data were collected through interviews, field notes, reflective journals. Two themes were identified: ‘School is the trailer, the actual film is in nature’ and ‘nature makes you notice yourself, relationships, life.’ In conclusion, supporting the school curriculum with outdoor activities will help students build skills such as problem solving, resilience, empathy, cooperation, and communication, while also gaining confidence and environmental awareness. Thus, they will be able to realize their own potential and become sensitive to environmental problems.

KEYWORDS:

• Case study
• experiential learning
• holistic learning
• outdoor activities (out-of-class education)

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Muzaffer Toprak Keskin

Muzaffer Toprak Keskin is a lecturer in Faculty of Sport Sciences at the Nevsehir Bektas University. He researches outdoor education in different contexts and extra-curricular activities for students’ learning.

Özlem Alagül

Özlem Alagül is an assistant professor in Department of Physical education and Sports Teaching at the Kastamonu University. Her research area focuses on PE pedagogy including teachers/pre-service teachers’ professional learning/development and learning/pedagogy in online environments.

Ferda Gürsel

Ferda Gürsel is a professor in Department of Physical Education and Sports Teaching at the Ankara University. Her main research area focuses on PE pedagogy including teacher professional development, pedagogical models and adapted physical education.