Rock climbing as experiential pedagogy in outdoor education

The positive psychology outcomes and students' well-being

Datos Bibliográficos

ID21284083
AutoresJinsheng Zhu (0000-0003-0586-1291), Jinsheng Jason Zhu (City University of Macau), Qideng Mo (Guilin University of Technology, autor de correspondencia)
Año2026
Volumen264
Páginas106414
Fecha de publicación2026-04-01
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaActa Psychologica (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 0001-6918 • E-ISSN: 1873-6297
EditorialElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.actpsy.2026.106414
PMID41707360
OpenAlexW7129033635
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas1
Referencias citadas61

PURPOSE: This study investigates the pedagogical value of rock climbing in Chinese higher education through the dual lenses of constructivist learning theory and the PERMA+IT framework of positive psychology in outdoor higher education studies. METHODS: Drawing on interactive observation, in-depth interviews, and case-based analysis, the research examines how simulated and outdoor climbing experiences shape students' emotional, cognitive, and relational development. RESULTS: Findings demonstrate that climbing cultivates positive emotions, deep engagement, interpersonal and ecological relationships, meaning through self-efficacy, and accomplishment, while also advancing independence and trust as critical sub-dimensions. The results reveal that students not only develop physical competency but also experience heightened resilience, reflective thinking, and a stronger sense of community. CONCLUSIONS: These outcomes highlight rock climbing as a powerful medium for experiential learning that integrates physical challenge with psychological growth and human-nature connection. The study contributes to outdoor education research by evidencing how constructivist approaches and positive psychology principles converge to promote holistic student development and curricular innovation in higher education. CONTRIBUTIONS: Rock-climbing excursion in outdoor higher education merits greater pedagogical integration: it enriches student wellbeing, deepens learning, and empowers students to navigate uncertainty with confidence, an essential capability in contemporary education

Climbing · Excursion · Experiential education · Experiential learning · Outdoor education · Positive psychology · Adventure Sports and Sensation Seeking · Outdoor and Experiential Education · Recreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management