Exploring the complex impact of the Trefort Nomad Camp on the classroom community and students

Abstract

Mankind is caught up in a global polycrisis, including climate change and environmental and conservation issues. To address and solve these, it is essential that students acquire the skills to become responsible citizens who understand their environment. Every May, the ELTE Trefort Ágoston Practice High School organizes the Nomad Camp, in which ninth-grade students spend a week in nomadic conditions in Hungary. In this study, we investigated the impact of the camp on: the environmental awareness of the participating students; class community and friendships; the development of skills and abilities; and how long the participants feel the impact of the camp? Two data sources were analyzed: a dataset comprising three measurements, incorporating a control and an experimental class; and a survey completed by former students from the camp’s first 20 years. After the camp, students believe that they can live a fulfilling life with less energy usage and can be environmentally conscious without sacrificing essentials. The results show that almost two thirds of the campers agree that they have improved their spatial orientation, and their understanding of nature and their own physical limits. More than half stated that they can work better with their classmates. Nine out of ten reported that a significant aspect of the camp was the opportunity to challenge themselves in a new situation. Eight out of ten students highlighted the importance of proximity to nature, learning about it, and the value of team building. The results of the questionnaire, which covered a period of 20 years, also demonstrate that more than two-thirds of campers believe that the camp still has a noticeable impact on their lives at the time of completing the questionnaire (i.e., at least three years after participating).