The purpose of this research paper is to investigate and compare leadership styles used at National Outdoor Leadership School and Outward Bound. Specifically, the literature on general leadership styles, Educational models, NOLS and OB were used to situate the question within a context. Referenced are models such as experiential education, adventure education, outdoor education, environmental education, Bruce’s (2006) motivational needs theory, Hersey’s (2009) situational leadership model, Priest’s (2005) Five sources of power and conditional outdoor leadership theory model (COLT). I will also be using my own experience as an outdoor leader to further investigate what my finding will mean to me. This research will bring to light the issues leaders face in the outdoors and what needs to be done to keep participants safe. OB and NOLS leadership styles will be the focus that gives my research more direction and helps relate the theories to real life practices. Recommendations for leaders of the future based on my findings are also included.
