Fifty years of innovative programming in what has come to be called resident outdoor education are traced in this volume which examines the evolution of resident outdoor education from its early beginnings to the present. The several authors of this book are leaders in outdoor education who have been intimately involved in the development of programs and the teaching of other leaders. The various themes crystalize the essence of resident outdoor education as practiced in the United States from 1930-1980 and highlight the impact of this curriculum innovation on American education. Analyzing the impact that resident outdoor education has had on educational philosophy and practice, this book brings together numerous experiences in developing programs. Two aspects of outdoor education are prominent herein. The first (the central theme of the book) is that there is a need for direct contact with the environment, that some learning makes a deeper impact and is retained longer when a concept or an object is discovered, observed, sensed, and interpreted in the natural setting. The second aspect addresses learning to live with our fellow creatures. It is the intent of this volume to make possible a greater understanding of the outdoor education movement and of the need for extending its benefits throughout our school systems. (Author/AN)