Many components of the social system interact with one another to produce group-level behavior that determines the functionality of the small group in outdoor adventure education (OAE). This article synthesizes the contemporary literature and theory regarding eight aspects of the OAE social system: (a) Macro Contextual Factors, (b) Student…

The purpose of this mixed-method study was to understand participants' perceptions of their Outward Bound Final Expedition experience and more specifically the relationship between the instructor supervisory position and participant's perception of learning. A sample of 331 students consented to participate and completed a survey at the conclusion…

When groups form, they develop their own culture from the shared meaning created from their interactions. Humor is part of every social group, and when repeatedly referenced, it forms a joking culture. The joking culture of small groups influences group processes by smoothing group interaction, forming a collective identity, separating the group…

This paper argues that field courses can improve college students' interest and engagement not only in the environmental sciences, but also in the environmental humanities--including environmental history, philosophy, and literature. We base this argument on five years of experience teaching an environmental studies field course through the…

A facilitator is commonly defined as a substantively neutral person who manages the group process in order to help groups achieve identified goals or purposes. However, outdoor educators rarely experience the luxury of only managing the group process, because they are typically responsible for the provision of leadership, skill instruction, and…

Transfer of learning from adventure programs remains of critical interest to adventure education professionals. Although some research has investigated what transfers, notably less has focused on mechanisms that might influence transfer. This paper explores the mechanisms of transfer reported by a stratified random sample of National Outdoor…

The purpose of the present study was to examine the relationship between status congruency and group cohesion in outdoor expedition groups in an educational setting. Specifically, three aspects of status congruency were assessed in relation to group cohesion in four adventure canoe groups. The groups participated in 2-week expeditions in the…

Describes an introductory horizontal caving experience for college-age women who were uncomfortable with their bodies, insecure with movement, and unwilling to take big risks. The darkness and quiet of the cave released inhibitions and promoted group cohesion, feelings of intimacy and safety, self-discovery, and self-confidence. (SV)

Proposes a framework for using experiential programs to facilitate community building through individual and organizational learning. Discusses single-loop and double-loop learning by individuals and organizations, use of reflection and metaphors, program design, and dialog as an approach to creating shared meaning. Contains 21 references. (SV)

Defines the cooperative group decision-making process of consensus, contrasts it with voting and compromise, and presents an illustrative situation. Describes individual consensus skills, the role of group facilitator, pitfalls of the process, and use of consensus in educational settings and large organizations. (SV)

Two faculty from different institutions co-initiated and co-facilitated an interdisciplinary faculty group to mentor members in experiential teaching approaches. Members shared their experiences with experiential strategies, as well as advice, resources, and professional support. Recommendations cover formation of such groups, group processes and…

Advocates use of rituals to foster intimate, caring relationship with one's place and to develop a sense of community within a group. Describes "Talking Staff" and "Medicine Wheel" as tools for debriefing, performance of camp chores, and fostering ecological awareness and a sense of place. (NEC)

Identifies series of predictable stages through which small groups progress: pre-affiliation, power and control, intimacy, differentiation, and separation. Shows application of group development for each area as group passes through various stages. Outlines model for each area summarizing group interaction and instructor roles for each stage. (NEC)

Describes Robert Terry's ethical principles for leadership that have been adopted by the outdoor adventure organization, Woodswomen, for their leadership training process. Leader tasks correspond to each of the following ethical principles: (1) dwelling (acknowledging one's own history and values); (2) freedom; (3) justice; (4) participation; (5)…

Discusses Tikkun Olam--the Jewish tenet of healing the world through individual good deeds--and its applicability to the practice of adventure therapy. Focuses on the therapeutic relationship, as it develops in group settings, and the role of adventure leaders and therapists in nourishing such relationships to provide a vehicle for healing or…