- Title
- The experience of a lifetime : alumni perceptions of the development and transfer of life and workforce skills in the Ohio 4-H camp counselor program
- Author
- Digby, Janel Kathleen
- Degree
- Master of Science, Ohio State University,
Agricultural Education, 2005.
- Advisor
- Theresa M. Ferrari
- Pages
- xi, 133 leaves : ill.
- Abstract
- Ohio 4-H invests significant resources in its camping program, and a new leadership structure named camping as a priority area. Past research suggests that camp counselors develop life skills, yet the perspective of alumni regarding transfer of learning has not been explored. The goals of this research was to ask 4-H camp counselor alumni about their experiences as a 4-H camp counselor, the life and workforce skills gained through their experience, the impact the camp counselor experience had on their career choice, and the unique aspects of being a 4-H camp counselor as compared to the rest of the 4-H experience. This study used qualitative methods to collect data from adults (ages 18 and over) who had been 4-H camp counselors in Ohio. Focus groups were used to collect data from this sample (n = 30). Eighteen of Ohio's 88 counties were represented. The average age of the participants was 22 and the average number of years the alumni were counselors was 4 years. Overall, 4-H camp counselors thought their experience was fun and enjoyable, yet challenging. They believed they developed important life and workforce skills needed for the 21'' century. More specifically, decision making, planning and organizing, communication, interpersonal skills, teamwork, and leadership were skills most mentioned. The alumni believed that the camp counseling experience had both indirect and direct impacts on their choice of a career. Unique aspects of being a camp counselor compared to other experiences in 4-H were that camp takes place in a different environment where there is little competition. Camp counselors also have the opportunity to be role models and develop a sense of identity. In conclusion, camp provides a developmental context for adolescents to thrive. The skills and qualities learned through this experience are transferred to other contexts of life such as a student or employee or as a community member. The development of these skills and qualities takes place in a fun environment, an often overlooked dimension of youth programs. The results of this study will be used to develop training materials and will be shared with important stakeholders.
Document number: osu1152636218.
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