Readiness and Difficulties of the Students on Outward Bound Courses in Vocational Colleges

This study delved into the preparedness levels and obstacles encountered by students engaging in outward-bound courses within vocational colleges located in a prominent Chinese urban center for the Academic Year 2023 to 2024. Data for this descriptive study was collected from 355 out of 4,500 students in seven branches in China using a self-made survey questionnaire that has passed the rigorous tests of validity and reliability. A closer look at the demographics showed that most respondents are older female students whose parents have higher educational backgrounds and belong to the higher income group. The ensuing analysis showed students registering an overall high level of readiness in outward-bound courses. Subsequent results showed no significant difference in the level of readiness in outward-bound courses when student respondents were grouped according to age, sex, parent’s education, and family income. To further enhance the level of readiness and further bring down the difficulties of the students on outward-bound courses in Vocational Colleges, this paper calls for school administrators and teachers to make informed decisions on where to invest in technology, how to allocate resources, whom to involve in digitization efforts, enhance existing outdoor skill training, and consider several strategies to boost skill development. 

Keywords: Student readiness, student difficulties, outward bound courses, leadership development, outdoor skills, mental preparedness, psychological factors, and teamwork and communication skills.