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Outdoor adventure education and constructive development theory: An inquiry into meaning making, growing up, and immunity to change

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Abstract

What does it mean to grow up? Why is it important? How does one measure it, and what factors make it so difficult to realize? This paper explores how one’s experience in an outdoor adventure education program may be observed, understood, and potentially maximized through the lens of Robert Kegan’s constructive-developmental theory. This paper shares the theoretical foundation of constructive-developmental theory and related literature relevant to understanding how a program participant makes meaning of their outdoor adventure experience. The constructive-developmental perspective can help inform understanding of participant experiences of change and may direct practices underpinning outdoor adventure programming. Kegan’s theory may provide cogent understandings of change, how it is facilitated and measured, and insight as to why some youth thrive and others struggle in outdoor adventure programs.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Blue Goat Expeditions, Anchorage, USA

    Curt J. Pollock

  2. School of Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada

    Nevin J. Harper

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  1. Curt J. Pollock
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Correspondence to Nevin J. Harper.

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Pollock, C.J., Harper, N.J. Outdoor adventure education and constructive development theory: An inquiry into meaning making, growing up, and immunity to change. Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education 25, 247–263 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42322-022-00107-z

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