THROWBACK THURSDAY: EXPLORING ECUADOR
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TAKES ROOT IN THE WILD:
GLOBAL UNIVERSITY 2017
In June 2017, thirteen AORE members visited Ecuador with Executive Director Jeannette Stawski as a part of the association’s Global University program. Thanks to the generous support and travel planning expertise of our program sponsor, G Adventures, we were able to curate a truly transformative international expedition and experiential learning experience in the great outdoors. The trip itinerary and accompanying curriculum for Global University 2017 was specifically developed to foster a community of experts within outdoor recreation and education and resulted in the following outcomes:
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Emphasized an appreciation for our natural environment.
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Raised the bar of practice and performance in global programming development.
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Enhanced the profession of outdoor education and recreation through facilitated discussions about perceived challenges and opportunities, an examination of industry innovations and trends, a focus on collaboration, and offering safe space for the free exchange of ideas and strategies.
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Encouraged the development of mentorship relationships and provided numerous chances to meet and network with industry leaders, organizations, and locals, as well as learn from them.
In addition to exploring Ecuador's culture, landscape, and history, Global University participants examined the recent appearance (and growing trend) of adding international outdoor travel to college and university outdoor programs. A common theme emerged as we discussed the similarities and differences between being a trip leader / trail guide in the United States versus another country. Intentional planning was determined to be the key to successfully designing and managing impactful global outdoor adventures. As the adventure came to a close, Global University participants were urged to consider how they might implement intentional planning in their own departments and programs back home when they lead international outdoor adventure trips.
*Original article was originally featured in AORE’s 2017 Annual Report.
Global University is made possible thanks to the generous support of G Adventures, our loyal AORE365 Partner. G Adventures organizes small group tours to exciting destinations all over the world. Visit their website when you plan your next global travel adventure and get the support you need to curate a stress-free, enriching experience that brings you closer to the people, places, and cultures that you want to visitLearn more about Global University 2019. And be sure to visit our newsroom and social media pages to follow along with trip participants as they embark on this transformative learning expedition in Costa Rica this May.
Global University is made possible thanks to the generous support of G Adventures, our loyal AORE365 Partner. G Adventures organizes small group tours to exciting destinations all over the world. Visit their website when you plan your next global travel adventure and get the support you need to curate a stress-free, enriching experience that brings you closer to the people, places, and cultures that you want to visitLearn more about Global University 2019. And be sure to visit our newsroom and social media pages to follow along with trip participants as they embark on this transformative learning expedition in Costa Rica this May.