Experiential Education: A Look at SPEC Teaching Methodology
Andrew Wright
SPEC is a modern teaching methodology developed for experiential learning settings. It stands for Student oriented, Problem based, Experiential, and Collaborative. It is the one of the primary teaching methods taught as part of the Wilderness Education Associations (WEA) approach towards experiential education and teaching in outdoor environments. In this session, participants will be introduced to SPEC and the benefits and challenges of it, before putting SPEC into practice. After the introduction and theory, participants will break into small groups and work together to design a mini group lesson plan using the SPEC model, which they will present back to the rest of the group.
About Andrew
Andrew Wright is a seasoned outdoor professional with extensive leadership experience as Chair of the Wilderness Education Association (WEA) and Director and Partner of Indier Outdoor Education. As Chair of the WEA, Andrew has spearheaded efforts to expand the organization’s global influence, enhance outdoor leadership training, and develop initiatives that empower future leaders in the industry. At Indier Outdoor Education, Andrew has played a key role in establishing the company as a leader in experiential learning, designing and delivering innovative adventure, cultural, and service-learning programs across China and beyond. Under his leadership, Indier has become a trusted partner for schools and organizations seeking transformative outdoor experiences that connect participants to nature and diverse cultures.
With over two decades of experience, Andrew’s career has spanned roles in program management, ropes course leadership, and environmental education, including partnerships with internationally recognized organizations like Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society. Through his work with WEA and Indier, Andrew continues to shape the future of outdoor education and inspire meaningful connections between people and the outdoors.
