- Category: Art , Life
- Topic: Experience
Olha as shared her experience participating in a scavenger hunt on campus with the goal of creating a group photo representing various departments. Her group consisted of five individuals with differing heights and shapes, which led to a slightly unbalanced photo. Despite this, it was an amazing opportunity for the group to bond as they navigated their way around the campus, discovering school resources and growing closer as a team.
To ensure they didn't walk in circles, the group created a walking map to guide them. This activity allowed Olga to interact with other students and gain marks for participation in a fun and effective manner. The purpose of these types of activities is to create an exciting learning environment, as highlighted in Deema Abdulmohsen Alajaji's article in the Journal of Information Technology Education: Research.
Participating in the scavenger hunt also helped Olga improve her communication skills as she worked with her group to solve clues and reach the final destination. It was also an opportunity to learn about other cultures, promoting a stronger understanding of diversity and its benefits in future group assignments.
Olga recognizes the value of teamwork and social interaction, especially when it comes to navigating an online campus and locating important resources. The activity was enjoyable and fascinating, despite initial discomfort about taking a selfie with strangers. Planning was key for the group to find all necessary materials, and Olga learned the locations of university departments in case of emergency or when seeking assistance in the library.
Overall, Olga found the scavenger hunt to be a positive and rewarding experience. It helped combat the assumption that some students may have about not fitting in or making friends in college, especially when group work is involved. The importance of teamwork is also highlighted in Rosalind Merrick's book, Inclusive Teamwork for Pupils with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs, as well as in B.W. Chaffee's article in the American Journal of Public Health, which emphasizes the need to keep up with changing times and focus on national surveillance of youth substance use.