Jaidan Brass - Outdoor Leaders (12/04)

  AMC Guide to Outdoor Leadership by Kosseff was my textbook for Outdoor Leadership this semester. It had a lot of information about being a leader in outdoor programs. Why would Outdoor programs require such a different leadership style than the ones I’ve learned in other Leadership classes? I feel like it mostly deals with the fact that outdoor programs involve so much more risk. Kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, and other outdoor activities all have risks involved in them. In comparison, other leadership programs where it is watching a seminar or doing activities in small, controlled areas. There are also the many “what ifs” you must be prepared for with the program. Because of the fact that many outdoor programs have completely uncontrollable portions, I think outdoor leaders have many more opportunities to grow and promote leadership capabilities. What happens if someone gets hurt and you are out of reach of calling 911? What happens if one of the people you are in control of gets separated from the group? What happens when you have to decide whether to continue on or head back. All of these are questions that outdoor leaders have to answer. While there are many leaders that are beneficial to different situations, I think the skills needed and learned through outdoor leadership are beneficial to a leadership education overall.

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