The Development, Implementation and Evaluation of a Freshman Outdoor Adventure Orientation Experience at the Central Wisconsin Environmental Station

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop, implement and evaluate a residential outdoor adventure orientation experience held at the Central Wisconsin Environmental Station (CWES) for incoming traditional freshmen at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP). The main goal of the study was to increase student success and retention on the UWSP campus. The program development process was completed by consulting an advisory panel, completing a literature review and consulting with CWES staff. The program was implemented as a two-day, one-night residential experience called Fresh Start. It was held two days prior to the fall semester of the 1999-2000 school year. The objectives for Fresh Start were to develop group skills and provide students with an opportunity to meet new people. Various activities were implemented to achieve these objectives. A follow-up program was developed and implemented in the spring of 2000. The study was planned as an experimental design. Pre-test and post-test questionnaires were used to determine changes in students' perception of their adjustment to college. Failure to obtain control group responses to the pre-test necessitated a change to a quasi-experimental design. Quantitative and qualitative analysis revealed that significant differences existed between the mean scores of the entire group on the pre- and post-tests. The retention rates for the treatment group were compared with that of the entire freshman class. The treatment group had a higher retention rate than the freshman class at the start of the second and third semesters. No difference was found in retention rates of students who perceived the experience as positive compared to those who found it negative. Further study using an experimental design is needed to adequately control for other factors that may affect student success and retention.