Bibliographies of Camp-related Research

Christian Education and Nurture: The August 1992 Presbyterian Panel
Presbyterian Panel
Louisville, KY: Research Services, Presbyterian Church (USA) 1992

Purpose:
Survey of Presbyterians in the United States and Puerto Rico to gather information on opinions, behaviors, and general interests. Includes a component about learning experiences in childhood which includes the importance of summer camp attendance.

Sample:
5,245 participants selected using "scientific sampling procedures". Four affiliated groups: members (1589), elders (1434), pastors (1533), and specialized clergy (730).

Methods/Instruments:
Mail survey conducted over a three-year period.

Results:

26% of members and 38% of pastors participated frequently in summer church camp.
34% of members and 48% of pastors indicated that summer church camp made a great contribution to understanding of Christian Faith and Life.
11% of the sample responded that a "camping program" was significant in shaping Christian life and was recalled as a "positive learning experience".
Scholarship help to camps listed as highest priority in distribution of congregational funds (41% of members, 43% of pastors, 55% of specialized clergy).