Outdoor leadership preparation in Australia in 2002 : a cross-sectional analysis and recommendations

Abstract

This research explores the notion of outdoor leadership preparation in the context of the emerging outdoor profession in Australia. It explores the nature of outdoor leadership from a number of viewpoints and its relationship to the broader context. The research examines relevant literature through issue-based themes relating to an emerging paradigm, leadership, preparation, recognition and professionalisation. These themes are problematised in the context of the emerging outdoor profession. Issues of appropriate preparation pathways and the models of learning characteristic of each pathway are discussed throughout this research. The results of a mapping exercise covering outdoor leadership preparation courses offered throughout Australia in 2002 are used in conjunction with the contextual aspects to generate grounded mini-theories relating to the topic. This study uses a cross-sectional analysis of this data and by using descriptive statistics highlights the dominance of the learning pathways that offer a competency-based framework for learning leadership skills. The results are discussed in relation to both the current context and the literature. The argument that develops throughout the research is for a reconceptualisation of the learning pathways for outdoor leadership preparation in Australia, in light of the emerging professionalisation of the outdoor industry. Recommendations for changes to the currently accepted entry pathways into the emerging profession are discussed, as are the areas for further research.

Date of Award	2004
Original language	English
Supervisor	Christine Jack (Supervisor), Bob CADMAN (Supervisor) & Howard Walmsley (Supervisor)