Differences in epistemological beliefs in a group of high-level UK based Caving, Mountaineering and Rock-climbing Instructors

Abstract

The epistemological underpinning of Adventure Sports Coaches’ (ASCs) coaching and leadership practice is a growing area of research. The epistemological stance that links to caving instructors, winter mountaineering instructors and rock-climbing instructors practice however has not been considered. Consequently, this paper sought to explore the epistemology of 9 UK-based ASCs (caving instructors (n=3), winter mountaineering instructors (n=3) and rock-climbing Instructors (n=3) using an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis approach. The study aimed to determine specifically how epistemology manifested itself and whether findings reflected previous ASC research. Results supported previous work in confirming that an Epistemological Chain existed but found that it operated in a very different manner due to the environmental constraints and heightened risk evident within these particular Adventure Sport activities. Findings have implications for National Governing Body instructor training programme design and operation, and also in how epistemology is considered to influence coaches’ decision making in these Adventure Sport activities.