Title

Outcomes of a Spiritually Focused Wilderness Orientation Program

Authors

Andrew J. Bobilya, Montreat College
Lynn D. Akey, Minnesota State University, MankatoFollow
Donald Mitchell Jr., University of Rochester

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2011

Abstract

Higher education often supports new student transition through various orientation programs. Recently a greater focus on student spiritual growth has emerged as an important aspect. The wilderness orientation program in this study is unique because of its length (12–14 days) and its focus on students' spiritual development. The purpose of this study was to understand the students' perceptions of a spiritually focused wilderness orientation program and the influence of their participation in the program during their transition to the college. Data were collected through a post-course essay, the Student Adaptations to College Questionnaire, and a focus group interview. The themes that emerged indicate categories that the students recognized as important: (a) community, (b) developing competence, (c) stewardship, and (d) spiritual growth. These results are helpful in answering some of the questions asked by those involved in traditional student transition programs and those providing wilderness orientation programs.

Department

Academic Affairs/TRIO

Publication Title

Journal of Experiential Education

Recommended Citation

Bobilya, A. J., Akey, L. D., & Mitchell, Jr., D. (2011). Outcomes of a Spiritually Focused Wilderness Orientation Program. Journal of Experiential Education, 33(4), 301-322. doi. 10.1177/105382591003300403

DOI

10.1177/105382591003300403

Link to Publisher Version (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1177/105382591003300403

Publisher's Copyright and Source

Copyright © 2011 Association for Experiential Education. Article published by SAGE in Journal of Experiential Education, volume 33, issue number 4, 2011, pages 301-322. Available online: https://doi.org/10.1177/105382591003300403