Abstract

The Forest Survival Game is a nature-based, experiential learning method designed for young people. It aims to strengthen participants’ connection with nature, environmental awareness, sense of agency, self-confidence, and everyday survival skills. The method is grounded in experiential learning, adventure education, and experiential pedagogy, with learning emerging through hands-on activities, shared experiences, and reflection, and with nature serving as an active learning environment.

At the heart of the game is a collaborative, story-driven survival adventure that includes practical tasks such as preparing for an outdoor excursion, learning first aid, navigation, outdoor cooking, and understanding the principles of responsible behaviour in nature. Through these activities, participants develop not only practical outdoor skills but also teamwork, problem-solving, responsibility, and safe decision-making in various situations.

The Forest Survival Game can be adapted for diverse target groups and settings and implemented in both outdoor and virtual environments. The method provides professionals with a ready-to-use package that supports group facilitation and enables meaningful learning experiences. A key principle of the game is collaborative learning: challenges are solved together, and no one survives alone. Additionally, reflection at the end of the activity deepens learning by helping participants recognise their experiences, strengths, and newly acquired skills, and by connecting them to their everyday lives. The Forest Survival Game combines nature-based activities, gamification, and collaborative learning, offering an effective and accessible way to support young people’s well-being, personal growth, and development.

The Forest Survival Game was developed and piloted as part of the TUPA – Fresh Competence for Youth Services Project, funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), in South Savo, Finland, from 2024 to 2026.

Keywords: the human–nature relationship, experiential learning, preparedness, environmental and nature education, social empowerment