ERIC Number: EJ1189365
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1948-5123
EISSN: N/A
Bringing Challenge Course Activities into the Classroom: Pedagogical Strengths, Obstacles, and Recommendations
Schary, David P.; Jenny, Seth E.; Morrow, Geoff S.; Wozniak, Tyler
Journal of Outdoor Recreation, Education, and Leadership, v10 n3 p238-252 2018
The challenge course (CC) is a popular element in experiential education, providing individuals with activities and reflective debriefing that build numerous social and psychological processes. To date, little research shows if CC activities can be successfully implemented in a college classroom setting. Using an introductory course at a U.S. liberal arts university, this study examined the perceived strengths and limitations of a classroom-based CC intervention with intentional follow-up activities throughout the semester. Employing a qualitative, descriptive study design, the class instructors (n = 5) and CC facilitators (n = 9) described their experience in two separate 1-hr focus groups. Three overarching themes emerged from the data: (a) perceived benefits of the intervention, (b) perceived challenges of the intervention, and (c) pedagogical recommendations for future interventions. In addition, several subthemes within each theme were also revealed. Despite noting several obstacles, the participants indicated that CC programs provide a unique learning experience that can be modified for the college classroom.
Descriptors: Adventure Education, Experiential Learning, Introductory Courses, Intervention, College Faculty, Facilitators (Individuals), College Instruction, Educational Benefits, Barriers, Undergraduate Students, College Freshmen, Teacher Attitudes, Student Attitudes
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A