Evaluating Outdoor Therapeutic Programs: Development of a Practical, Rigorous Method to Build the Evidence

Abstract

There are relatively few published accounts of the effectiveness of outdoor therapeutic programs. Most outdoor programs report favourable outcomes, yet few undertake a methodologically sound program evaluation. Application of a more rigorous evaluation method could improve the contribution that many programs could make to the evidence base regarding the effects and outcomes of outdoor programs. In recognition of this, we propose a practical and rigorous evaluation method that has been successfully trialled in Australia. The model was founded on four key principles: measurement of relevant concepts; from a range of informants; at meaningful time points; and with rigorous data collection proce..