Evaluating Outdoor Therapeutic Programs

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 procedures. The model proposed is suitable for diverse programs and utilises a form of individual goal attainment scaling in a mixed method design, with strategies for maximising data available from small samples. For program organisers who are not well versed in issues of evaluation design, this model, and the example described, will assist in developing and conducting an evaluation. More broadly, this article aims to inform future outcome evaluations of specialist programs.