Means-end theory was used to analyze differences in outcomes from original interviews and follow-up interviews occurring four years after Outward Bound (OB) and National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) 2006 course participation. In 2006, a semi-structured, in-person interview was conducted after participants (N = 510) completed their course. In…

This study explores differences between Outward Bound (OB) and National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) participant perspectives on programmatic factors and their relation to outcomes. Although OB and NOLS are assumed to be similar in many ways, as each program offers wilderness expeditions for students in backcountry environments, the mission…

The purpose of this article is to discuss the ethical responsibility of instructors preparing outdoor leaders through extended expeditions. The tragic death of Gretta Berglund, a former outdoor leadership graduate, will be used to broach this serious issue. Do instructors take the time during training to ensure that each student has a realistic…

A study evaluated changes in an outdoor leader's anxiety during an 8-day residential adventure program for physical education majors in England. Analysis of variations in the leader's self-confidence found higher cognitive and somatic anxiety before group activities in the morning and last thing at night. Anxiety increased and self-confidence…

Describes an adventure-therapy program run by Woodswomen in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Corrections, designed to help women offenders learn new skills and ways of being that will help them stay out of jail. Discusses leadership considerations, a parallel program for their children, and the application of risk-taking skills for…

The practice of responding to women's fears by "fixing" the situation denies them their feelings and eclipses their knowledge of self. Intuition is a valid way of knowing, and outdoor leaders need to honor it in themselves and others, and listen to and encourage women who voice their feelings. (TD)

An emotionally safe environment helps campers participate in adventure activities. Staff development tips for creating a safe environment include using cooperative goal setting; using parallel training processes; developing working lesson plans that outline facilitation techniques for creating emotionally safe environments; and using co-created…

Discusses stages of competency development, using the seasons of the year as a metaphor. Identifies educational strategies that outdoor educators can use at each stage to help women overcome gender role socialization pressures that discourage them from achieving or recognizing their true competency levels. (TD)

Addresses the importance of implementing outdoor training courses for women only to provide a supportive environment in which women can gain the confidence and skills needed to become outdoor leaders. Describes the experiences of the author (a black woman) in dealing with her race and gender during outdoor training courses. (LP)

Through anecdotes, a female outdoor educator highlights the importance of role-modeling gender equality, but also suggests a need to explore the cultural assumptions behind sexual roles; what is served by them; and the social mechanisms that reinforce them, such as homophobia. Educational strategies to help women gain and claim competence in the…