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A sampler of qualitative research in
organized camping.
Chenery, M.F.
The Journal of Experiential Education,
10.2 (1987), 13-16.
Purpose:
To advocate for the appropriateness of qualitative
research as a method for studying the effects
of organized camping. The assumptions on
which the researcher's argument is based
are:
- that a multiplicity of realities exist
in the camp environment and it is necessary
to look at the whole experience of individuals
in order to describe these realities in
a comprehensive and rich way,
- that rather than acting as a direct
causal agent, the camp experiences may
be viewed as providing some of the tools
and creating some of the conditions that
enable a person to develop the qualities
that contribute to a happy and productive
adulthood. The focus is on identification
of the dynamics that seem to accompany
the changes noted as a result of the camp
experience rather than on camp as a causal
agent.
- that the camp experience is in large
measure unique to each individual camp
and even to each summer at a particular
camp, making it difficult to use quantitative.
The researcher suggests that random samples
and controlled variables used to assure
generalizability may not yield as much
valuable information as looking for patterns
that emerge from studies of camp experiences
across a variety of settings.
- that the intense interpersonal nature
of the camp experience makes use of objective
research methods difficult.
Results:
A review of five qualitative studies yielded
the following observations:
- In an observational study of girls ages
8-10, the researcher reported that the
girls' perception of what they gained
from camp was that they learned to get
along with others and to make friends.
- In a second study, campers reported
that they had learned to believe in themselves,
they had learned swimming skills, to be
honest, to have fun, and not to fight.
Attributed the changes to acceptance,
experiencing success, and seeing alternative
ways to behave. Campers thought the changes
occurred due to fun people, doing things
by themselves, and the influence of counselors.
- Senior campers (aged 55 and older) reported
camp gave them new perspectives, renewed
physical abilities and spirit, and refreshed
memories.
- Staff in one study indicated that friendship
was a major influence on their satisfaction
with the summer experience. Staff goals
for the summer included: friendship, fun,
personal growth, personal challenge, and
skill development.
- Staff in another study reported pre-camp
expectations about making friends, developing
staff relationships, and meeting the needs
of campers.
- The researcher advocates for the use
of qualitative research as a basis for
understanding the nature and dynamics
of the camp experience.
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