Designing and implementing a Learning Development Outdoors component for an MSc in HRD

ABSTRACT The aim of this paper is to examine the contribution that Outdoor Learning Development (LDO) makes to a university postgraduate programme in Human Resource Development for international students with work experience. It establishes the rationale for LDO inclusion based on notable research contributions and differentiates the role and format of this event from conventional outdoor management development programmes through a focus on self-organized learning. The progression from individual learning to intra-group learning over the three days of the event is based on the interplay of action, theoretical inputs and self-evaluation. An emphasis is placed on purposeful conversation for shared learning, systems thinking and personal responsibility for seeking collaboration – essential elements in the life of real organizations. Individual reflective capability and group conversational processes for enhanced learning skills are stimulated in follow-up discussion after LDO with video input on key incidents. The learning achieved is generally observed to be beyond what conventional classroom activities can offer and sets in motion new thinking to consolidate and apply academic knowledge across the whole programme, providing a stimulus to career development.