Girls and outdoor education

Abstract

This study set out to investigate the experiences of girls' in school outdoor education programmes. One hundred and sixty-eight fourth form girls from four Dunedin schools (two co-ed and two single-sex) responded to a pre-post questionnaire surveying their self-esteem, attitudes to outdoor education and demographic backgrounds. Participant observations and twenty interviews were also undertaken .

Results from the quantitative data gathered constitute a general vote of confidence in outdoor education for girls. Qualitative analysis revealed that in general girls enjoyed their outdoor education camps, but there were some aspects of outdoor education that could be improved. Lack of self-confidence, scarcity of appropriate role models, poor body image and lack of planning for the menstrual needs of girls are some of the barriers that have been identified t~ girls' participation in outdoor activities. Recommendations are given for improving school outdoor education programmes for girls.