Adventure Based Learning Minor
Adventure Based Learning (ABL), was defined by Cosgriff (2000) as “the deliberate use of sequenced adventure activities - particularly games, trust activities and problem solving initiatives – for the personal and social development of participants” (p. 90). ABL utilizes group initiatives, low and high challenge course elements and many other activities to facilitate team building, problem solving, trust and communication. These experiences allow the individual and team to approach physical, social, mental and emotional challenges in a safe and secure setting. The program uses these activities as tools to develop different aspects of the individual and the group.
Students with ABL minor may not declare an OLE major.
Coordinator: Professor Carol Smith
Minor Requirements
Required courses: 12 sh
| OLE 2250 | Introduction to Outdoor Experiential Education | 4 sh |
| OLE 4100 | ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT | 4 sh |
| OLE 4970 | Senior Seminar | 4 sh |
Select one activity course from the following: 1-2 sh
Select eight semester hours from the following: 8 sh
Students who participate in NOLS, Outward Bound or Semester at Sea can petition the program coordinator for substitution for elective credit(s).
Students will receive no more than 4 semester hours for participation in NOLS, Outward Bound and/or Semester at Sea.
Other courses may be submitted for approval by the program coordinator.
Program Outcomes
Academic Assimilation
Students will:
• learn academic concepts through the use of direct experience;
• connect their experiences during outdoor leadership and educational learning activities with learning in the classroom;
• view issues and concepts from a variety of perspectives.
Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Skills
Students will:
• demonstrate responsibility and respect for themselves and others;
• extend their personal boundaries by making good decisions in challenging themselves;
• reflect upon their experiences and identify personal strengths and weaknesses;
• be effective members of groups (active listening and communication, cooperation/followership, initiative);
• develop their leadership skills and personal leadership style.
Social Awareness and Responsibility
Students will:
• empathize with the needs of others;
• appreciate the value of others and demonstrate social responsibility by making decisions accordingly;
• define their personal ethic and take action in their own lives to support their position.
Outdoor Skills
Students will:
• experience and develop lifelong interests in a variety of physical activities;
• learn specific practices that emphasize proficiency;
• develop the skills required to assess the experiences and make responsible and prudent decisions for themselves and the group;
• have the opportunity to learn hard skills such as belaying, kayaking, canoeing, hiking and/or camping;
• challenge themselves physically, mentally and emotionally while spending time reconnecting with the natural world;
• learn to manage risk on adventure expeditions.
Total Credit Hours: 21-22