Abstract:

The authors describe the phenomena of adventurous character, developed in places of spontaneous socialization of modern teenagers in Russia, that are used by teachers in their professional activity. Aspects of city quests and adventure races, activities of airsoft clubs and quest rooms, and other widespread forms of adventures for teenagers are considered as the examples. Considering different types of adventures, the authors, firstly, investigate those opportunities which adventures provide for teenagers’ development. Secondly, the researchers estimate the potential danger of different adventures to the participants’ physical and mental wellbeing. Thirdly, the researchers compare the particularity of teenage adventures which arise and develop as sociocultural practice, and the particularity of adventures which are organized by professional teachers in education.

To support the theoretical theses the authors analyze the results of an empirical research which was conducted among students of Russian higher education institutions. 500 young people at the age of 18-19 years from 7 Russian regions became the participants of the survey. Their experience of participating in spontaneous and organized adventures in teen years was in the centre of attention. The analysis of forms and types of adventures in the participants’ lives and education is presented. A particular interest was aroused by the attitude of the respondents to their own experience and educational results in adventures aroused.

The authors attempt to identify key recommendations for introducing adventure into mass practice of working with teenagers in Russia. The empirical basis for the recommendations is the experience in adventures’ independent development, carried out by young people who are participants from the informal association «StreetRaiding Kostroma», as well as many years of experience of innovative teachers from the educational camp «Centaur» (Kostroma) in organizing educational adventures. The authors present the main options and conditions for the educational adventure introduction to mass practice of working with teenagers in Russia.

Keywords:

Teenager, adventure, space spontaneous socialization, opportunities and threats, educational results, innovation.