Journal article
Thriving in the outdoor education profession: learning from Australian practitioners
Australian Journal of Outdoor Education, Vol.6(1), pp.13-24
2001
Abstract
Work related stress, and in particular burnout, is not a homogenous phenomenon with a common set of symptoms, causes, and recommended treatments. Burnout is a multi-dimensional problem caused by a mismatch between jobs and employees. This study used a mail survey (225) and mixture of quantitative and qualitative methods to explore the issue of work related stress and its management in the outdoor education profession. The results and discussion focused on demographics, conditions of employment, work related stress and coping strategies, and career planning. The diversity of factors contributing to work related stress identified by respondents supports the view that the causes of work related stress are multi-dimensional and individualistic. However, long work hours, time away from home, and difficulties maintaining relationships were commonly experienced as problems for many respondents. A link between general working conditions employees experience and the type of employing organisation is proposed. As a general rule, employees of schools experienced higher salaries and more recreation leave than non school employees. The strategies most used by respondents to restore their passion for work included, spending time with family and friends; participating in an outdoor recreation; diverse outside interests; and spending time in nature alone or with friends. Possible implications for employers and employees are provided.
Details
- Title
- Thriving in the outdoor education profession: learning from Australian practitioners
- Authors
- Glyn J Thomas (Author) - La Trobe University
- Publication details
- Australian Journal of Outdoor Education, Vol.6(1), pp.13-24
- Publisher
- Australian Outdoor Education Council
- Date published
- 2001
- DOI
- 10.1007/BF03400740
- ISSN
- 1324-1486
- Copyright note
- Copyright © 2001 The Authors. Reproduced in accordance with the publisher's copyright policy.
- Organisation Unit
- School of Education - Legacy; Indigenous and Transcultural Research Centre; School of Education and Tertiary Access; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99448939502621
- Output Type
- Journal article
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