What is Non-formal education (NFE)?
Non-formal education (NFE) refers to structured learning that occurs outside traditional school settings. It focuses on specific goals or skills tailored to the needs of specific groups. NFE is typically more flexible than formal education, giving learners autonomy and allowing the learning experience to align with personal or collective interests (Johnson & Majewska, 2023). Unlike informal learning, which occurs spontaneously, NFE can be intentional and organized, often featuring planned curricula that still retain learner-centered flexibility (Cambridge University Press & Assessment, 2023).
In hiking-based programs, NFE manifests through experiential activities that encourage environmental awareness, teamwork, and personal development. These activities often include goal-oriented tasks such as navigation challenges, team-building exercises, ecological clean-up actions, and, most importantly, strengthening intergenerational dialogue for our cause. All H4U methodologies inside this manual are based on NFE, offering an organized activity structure for boosting intergenerational dialogue.
Education in sport and education through sport
Education in sports focuses on learning in the context of organized physical activities such as hiking, running, or climbing. It often emphasizes personal discipline, physical fitness, and motor skills development. Meanwhile, education through sport extends beyond technical competencies, using physical activities to teach life skills such as teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and inclusion (Jung & Choi, 2016).
Hiking can be both education in and through sport. For instance, teaching participants how to read a map or navigate a trail is an example of education in sports. On the other hand, using hiking activities to foster intergenerational communication or environmental responsibility exemplifies education through sport.
Skills required to facilitate NFE in and through hiking
To effectively facilitate NFE in the context of hiking, facilitators need a blend of technical, interpersonal, and educational skills. These include:
1. Environmental awareness
Facilitators must be knowledgeable about local ecosystems, sustainability practices, and the importance of environmental conservation. This knowledge allows them to integrate lessons on nature preservation into hiking activities. So, before starting to apply H4U methodologies in practice, get acquainted with local ecosystems, environmental challenges, and topics of importance for your action.
2. Interpersonal and communication skills
Effective facilitation requires the ability to foster trust and communication across generations. Facilitators should encourage active listening and create inclusive spaces for dialogue, ensuring participants of all ages feel valued.
3. Outdoor leadership and risk management
Facilitators need skills in outdoor leadership, such as navigation, first aid, and risk management, to ensure the safety and well-being of participants during hikes. Managing risks while promoting safe participation is crucial for an enriching experience. If you are a youth organization striving to implement H4U activities, consider partnering with some hiking club or eco camp whose profession and staff capacities will be beneficial here.