Exploring factors influencing outcomes of a five-week youth expedition in the Himalayas using the sail training programme self-assessment toolkit

Abstract

Much evidence to link youth expeditions and gap years with a range of outcome benefits for participants exists, but to date, there have been relatively few insights into what exactly brings about these reported outcomes. A modified version of the Sail Training Voyage Toolkit (2011) was used to evaluate outcomes of a five-week British Exploring Society youth expedition in the Himalayas. Data generated from 22 participants completing the modified Sail Training Voyage Feedback Form at the end of their expedition were complemented by data from 16 interviews conducted during weeks one, three and five of the expedition.Key factors identified by the participants which had influenced their learning were: (1) Other Young Explorers, (2) being involved in making decisions and having choices, (3) having time to learn at their own pace; time to get comfortable with people; being able to talk with other people (to make connections); (4) group leaders, and (5) wild camping. Data from 16 interviews supported these outcomes, while the physical challenges (of climbing peaks) and cultural interaction with local people were highly valued aspects of the expedition. Participants were more aware of risks and more confident about safety issues and taking risks after the expedition. These important outcomes may be transferred to future expeditions, higher education or employment. Personal development and training organisations should consider these findings.

The Perceived Long-Term Influence of Youth Wilderness Expeditions in Participants’ Lives

“…Youth expeditions are often regarded as beneficial and even “life-changing” experiences for young people (Allison et al, 2018; Kellert & Derr, 1998; Stott et al, 2016), however the evidence on their perceived long-term impact is limited (Takano, 2010). Youth expedition organizations, such as the British Exploring Society, have a genuine need to conduct research, in order to learn if these experiences influence participants’ lives, and if so, what are these influences, which in turn can inform future practices.…”

The value of participating in British exploring society expeditions: a three year multi-cohort study

“…These skills and attributes are understood to be developed through an increased ability to effectively manage our emotions, thoughts and behaviours -particularly through challenging circumstances (Allison & Von Wald, 2012;Department for Education, 2015;Public Health England, 2015;Stott, Allison, Von Wald, & Fakunle, 2016). A useful systematic review of research on youth expeditions was undertaken by Stott et al (2015) which confirms the need for research using larger samples than the proliferation of anecdotal studies.…”

Mission Himalaya: Exploring the Impact of a Supported High-Altitude Mountaineering Expedition on the Well-Being and Personal Development of UK Military Veterans

“…This can be achieved through OAA provision, when delivered in a way that successfully provides an immersive experience, meets the bespoke needs of participants and is evidenced in an appropriate form [8]. Several studies have shown that conditions experienced on an expedition can result in improved psychological well-being [9][10][11][12]. However, few studies have examined the impact of expeditions for people adjusting to life-changing circumstances, such as sustaining career-ending physical injuries or the diagnosis of a trauma-related mental health disorder.…”

“…Only a few studies have reported on how short-term expeditions influence well-being benefits and these are limited by focusing on the immediate expedition, meaning that longerterm impacts are unclear [9][10][11][12]. Further, only one study has addressed the unique context of expeditions involving military veterans [13].…”