Kurt Hahn Consortium for Values and Experiential Learning

Outward Bound International (OBI) is the coordinating organization for all Outward Bound Schools in 35 different countries around the world. OBI provides the quality reassurances and sharing of best practices as well as promotes the work of OB Schools in political and international contexts. Outward Bound was started in 1941 in the UK by educator Kurt Hahn and business man Lawrence Holt to develop character and compassion in young people. In 1962 the ideas migrated across the Atlantic and the first Outward Bound School in the USA was opened in Colorado (still in operation today).

Penn State University (PSU) is the home for the Kurt Hahn Consortium for Values and Experiential Learning (KHCVEL) which is a collective of passionate academics and practitioners interested in supporting the work of Hahn legacy organizations.

OBI and PSU have signed a Memorandum of Understanding as an indicator of their commitment to collaborating with each other. This is primarily aimed at collaborative applications for research funding to examine character, develop capacity in OB schools around the world to share good practices and also develop research capacities in OB schools.

Sarah Wiley of OBI said … “Outward Bound International is thrilled to be collaborating with Penn State University on a variety of research initiatives. Our partnership with PSU will support and further OBI’s global research agenda; helping the Outward Bound global network of schools to continue to develop and deliver high-impact outdoor learning programs for young people around the world. “

Dr. Pete Allison, director of KHCVEL commented, ‘we are delighted to collaborate with OBI as the leading provider of outdoor education worldwide. We are excited to partner in research which will directly and indirectly positively impact the quality of educational experiences people will have outdoors.’

The Penn State Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Management and the Professional Ski Instructors of America and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA-AASI) have formally committed to a collaborative relationship to develop curriculum, research and opportunities for study.

Penn State Professor Pete Allison has been named one of the 14 inaugural British Exploring Society Fellows at the Royal Geographical Society.

As part of Penn State’s ongoing effort to develop academic and research partnerships around the world, the Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management and Outward Bound Oman have committed to a collaborative relationship with a signing at University Park and at a royal ceremony in Muscat, Oman.