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Designing Backwards, Moving Forwards
When we talk about training staff the ultimate purpose is to change something about how they work. It's more than running through a familiar set of activities — it’s about creating deliberate change in the people we are training. This article explores a strategy that begins with the end in mind.

Mike Thomas
Oct 26 min read


Navigating Smartphone Use in Outdoor Education Programs
As you prepare to lead an outdoor education program, one of the key considerations you’ll face is the role of smartphones among your students. These devices can be a double-edged sword, offering both valuable opportunities and potential distractions. Here’s a balanced guide to help you navigate this technology in your programs.

HKOLA
Sep 244 min read


The Myth of Plan A: Why Real-World Programming Demands Plan B
This article explores why contingency planning is vital, how to ensure Plan B holds equal value to Plan A, and how tools like the Cynefin Framework can help providers and clients alike build more resilient, adaptive programs.

Mike Thomas
Jun 254 min read


Solving Problems The Right Way
Problems happen every day, everywhere—even in the comfort of your own kitchen. A little water pooling on your work surface might not seem like much, but it can reveal some very real lessons about how we approach challenges in everyday life. This is the story of how a puddle sparked a broader reflection on root causes and problem-solving, and why "firefighting" fixes are no substitute for addressing the source of an issue.

Mike Thomas
Jun 254 min read
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