Here is Peter Duncan (1980s Blue Peter children's TV show Presenter) and Lofty Wiseman (author of that Popular Survival book) with his 1987 Childrens TV series called 'Duncan Dares'. I guess it might be considered the original format of all that was to follow on the Discovery Channel. There are some interesting differences though, which don't seem to make it into contemporary 'survival shows', such as sore tired feet, general fatigue, thirst, hunger and consequent failure.

Duncan Dares (Part 1)

Duncan Dares (Part2)

Maybe with all the product placement signature 'Survival Knifes' in the current crop of hard core 'Survival shows' scripted for vicarious thrills, there might possibly be a place for a map'n'compass, No wait that would suddenly become a happy camper or trekking entertainment show.