Personal Growth Through Experiential LearningPosted by Beigette Gill on July 09, 2017

Personal growth at camp happens in many different forms.  The development of the high and low ropes course is one way that Fernwood Cove facilitates personal growth in campers.  Throughout the past few summers the ropes course has grown from a few low and high elements to a state-of-the-art ropes course.  Camp has worked closely with High 5 to develop a course that encourages teamwork, trust, perseverance and collaboration.

Low Ropes Course

The low ropes elements allow a group to develop skills while staying low to the ground.  Ropes course staff develop lessons that progress campers through challenges that teach spotting skills and working together.  Low ropes elements can include balancing on cables, swinging on ropes, and holding and supporting group members.  Paired with good facilitation from the staff, a group is able to bond together and feel accomplished once completed.

High Ropes Course

The high ropes course elements are a series of single person climbs, partner climbs, and zip lines.  The single person elements provide the opportunity for campers to conquer their fear of heights and trust their own skills.  The partner elements encourage teamwork and communication as the pair must work together to finish.  Finally, the zip lines are a fun way for a group to celebrate all they have accomplished together as they fly through the air triumphantly.

The development of the ropes course has allowed staff to teach campers 21st Century Skills through experiential learning.  Campers gain skills in:

• Collaboration and teamwork
• Creativity and imagination
• Critical thinking
• Problem solving

The ropes course has afforded campers many new opportunities for personal growth.  These opportunities are encouraged and enhanced due to the warm Fernwood Cove setting.