Learning through adventure

Peru 2013 Learning through Adventure was a project developed by University of Brighton Sport and Exercise Science staff to promote learning and research in exercise and environmental physiology through field-based work and socio-cultural experiences through volunteering.

Twenty nine undergraduate students and staff completed research projects at the Welkin Human Performance Laboratories in Eastbourne prior to travelling to Cuzco, Peru in April 2013. In Peru students completed 18 days of physiological and perceptual tests to examine acclimatization and adaptation to altitude, worked to renovate Huacarpay Primary School, and completed a four day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu.

This educational project aimed to examine the impact of field-based research on students’ understanding of physiology and research methods, encouraging the appreciation of the benefits and challenges of field-based work outside of their comfort zone.