Learning the Ropes: The Link Between Neuroscience & Adventure-Based Experiential Learning

Author(s)

Ray SchragerFollow

Major

Psychology

Minor(s)

Leadership Studies

Advisor

Jackson-Frasier, Alison

Date

4-2020

Keywords

Experiential Learning; Neuroscience; adventure-based experiential learning; brain-based learning

Abstract

This literature review analyzes multiple scholarly articles that look at the concepts of and connections between adventure-based experiential learning, neuroscience, and experiential learning. I examined over a dozen scholarly articles to create a fuller, more well-rounded analysis and to draw conclusions. The purpose of this essay is to explore adventure-based experiential learning from a neuroscientific perspective, including an emphasis on studies that looked at the neurological-biological reactions and relationships that occur and result from adventure-based experiential learning. Specifically, I looked at neural pathways, synaptic connections, and other brain structures that get activated. What is the relationship between adventure-based experiential learning and neuroscience from a neuroscientific perspective, and what evidence exists from previous studies to back it up? My findings suggest that there is support anecdotally for a relationship between the two, but there have not been quantitative studies conducted to confirm or deny these hypotheses. Before making any definitive statements, the holes of this web, which connects the three fields, need to be stitched together and strongly backed with evidence. Future research is necessary to discover the statistical significance of the intersection between adventure- based experiential learning and neuroscience.